Fresh Mediterranean Three Bean Salad

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by Lionel Ramon

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In the vibrant world of culinary delights, nothing quite captures the spirit of summer like a Fresh Mediterranean Three Bean Salad. Picture this: crisp, colorful beans mingling with fresh herbs, all drizzled in a zesty dressing that dances on your palate. chicken and asparagus pasta dish grilled asparagus with lemon This dish is not just food; it’s a celebration!

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I remember the first time I made this salad for a family picnic. The sun was shining, and there was a gentle breeze, creating the perfect backdrop for this refreshing side dish. As everyone dug in, the laughter and compliments flowed just as freely as the olive oil in my dressing. a refreshing spring salad It’s a dish that’s equally at home at a fancy dinner party or a casual barbecue, promising to brighten any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Fresh Mediterranean Three Bean Salad is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings
  • The flavor profile is bright and refreshing, thanks to the combination of herbs and citrus
  • Its visual appeal will make it the star of any table with its vibrant colors
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as a main dish or a delightful side

I can still hear my cousin’s dramatic gasp when she took her first bite—pure joy encapsulated in one mouthful!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Green Beans: Fresh green beans offer crispness and vibrant color; look for firm pods without blemishes. a hearty main course. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.
  • Kidney Beans: Canned kidney beans are convenient; rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
  • Chickpeas: Packed with protein and fiber, they add heartiness; use canned or cooked from scratch.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Choose plump, juicy tomatoes for sweetness; halving them enhances their flavor.
  • Cucumber: A cool crunch is essential—opt for English cucumbers for fewer seeds and maximum freshness.
  • Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds sharpness; soak it in cold water first to mellow its bite.
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings brightness; use flat-leaf parsley for its robust flavor.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens every ingredient; avoid bottled varieties for best results.
  • Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enrich flavors and provide healthy fats.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors—add to taste!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Beans: Start by washing and trimming the green beans before blanching them in boiling water for about 3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.

Mix Your Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine drained chickpeas, rinsed kidney beans, chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions for a colorful base.

Add Fresh Herbs and Seasonings: Toss in freshly chopped parsley along with salt and pepper to taste. These ingredients will elevate your salad with fresh flavors.

Create the Dressing: Whisk together fresh lemon juice and olive oil until emulsified. This simple dressing ties all your ingredients together beautifully while adding zest.

Toss Everything Together!: Pour the dressing over your salad mix and gently toss everything until well combined. The aroma will be incredible as you mix!

Chill Before Serving: Allow your salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so that all those yummy flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

Now you’re ready to impress! Whether at a cookout or simply enjoying dinner on the deck, your Fresh Mediterranean Three Bean Salad will shine like a culinary superstar!

You Must Know

  • This Fresh Mediterranean Three Bean Salad is a colorful, nutritious dish that bursts with flavor
  • The combination of beans, veggies, and zesty dressing makes it perfect for any occasion
  • It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing and draining the canned beans while prepping your veggies. Chop the bell peppers and red onion finely for optimal flavor distribution.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out beans based on preference. Try adding feta cheese or olives for an extra Mediterranean flair! For more inspiration, check out this Baked Apples with Feta recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No need to reheat; enjoy it cold!

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To keep your salad fresh, dress it just before serving
  • Choose high-quality olive oil for better flavor
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley or mint to enhance taste and aroma!

Creating this salad reminds me of summer picnics with my family, where everyone devoured it in minutes amidst laughter and stories.

FAQs

FAQ

What beans are best for this salad?

Black beans, kidney beans, and garbanzo beans provide great texture and flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better when marinated overnight in the refrigerator!

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! This Fresh Mediterranean Three Bean Salad is completely plant-based and delicious.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Fresh Mediterranean Three Bean Salad


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Fresh Mediterranean Three Bean Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. This salad features a delightful mix of crisp green beans, hearty kidney beans, and protein-packed chickpeas, all tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and zesty dressing. Ideal as a main or side dish, it’s bursting with color and flavor that will impress at any occasion. Quick to prepare, this salad is not just nutritious; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients that brings joy to the table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 3 minutes until tender-crisp; then rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, rinsed kidney beans, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and blanched green beans.
  3. Add chopped parsley along with salt and pepper.
  4. Whisk together lemon juice and olive oil until emulsified; pour over salad and toss to combine.
  5. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing/Chilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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