Catch a whiff of fresh herbs, vibrant veggies, and plump beans in this Herby Mixed Bean Salad that’s as colorful as a summer garden! Imagine tossing together a medley of flavors that dance on your taste buds, with each bite bursting with the freshness of nature. This salad isn’t just a side dish; it’s an edible celebration that can elevate any meal or stand proudly as the star of your next picnic.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Herby Mixed Bean Salad
- How to Make Herby Mixed Bean Salad
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients are used in Herby Mixed Bean Salad?
- How can I make Herby Mixed Bean Salad more flavorful?
- Is Herby Mixed Bean Salad healthy?
- Can I prepare Herby Mixed Bean Salad ahead of time?
- Conclusion for Herby Mixed Bean Salad:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, picture this: it’s a sunny afternoon, and you’re gathering with friends for a backyard BBQ. The grill is sizzling, laughter fills the air, and you unveil this fabulous Herby Mixed Bean Salad. Its bright colors beckon everyone closer, while the aromatic herbs pull them in for a taste. And trust me, once they do, they’ll be begging you for the recipe!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Herby Mixed Bean Salad is not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavor that delights every palate.
- The vibrant ingredients create an eye-catching dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- You can customize it to suit your taste or mood effortlessly.
- Best of all, it’s great for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge for days!
Ingredients for Herby Mixed Bean Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Mixed Beans: A blend of chickpeas, kidney beans, and black beans offers protein and fiber. Rinse them well before use to remove excess sodium.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These juicy bites add sweetness and color; opt for ripe ones for maximum flavor.
- Cucumber: Crunchy cucumber adds a refreshing element. Choose firm cucumbers without soft spots.
- Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion gives a zesty kick; soak in water briefly to mellow the flavor if desired.
- Fresh Parsley: Brighten up your salad with freshly chopped parsley. It enhances both flavor and aroma.
- Fresh Basil: Adds a fragrant touch; opt for young leaves for better flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides zestiness and keeps the salad vibrant.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enrich flavors while providing healthy fats.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the lovely flavors; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Herby Mixed Bean Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by rinsing your canned mixed beans under cold water in a colander until the water runs clear. This step helps wash away excess sodium while keeping your salad light and refreshing.
Step 2: Chop Your Veggies
Next, grab your knife (be cautious) and chop those cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and finely chop one small red onion. Aim for consistency in size so every forkful has an even mix.
Step 3: Herbs Galore
In this step, take fresh parsley and basil leaves, giving them a good chop! The more you chop them up, the more their delightful aromas will fill your kitchen—a sure way to impress anyone nearby.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
In a large mixing bowl (the bigger, the better), toss together those rinsed mixed beans, chopped veggies, and fresh herbs. It’s like throwing a party in there—just don’t forget to invite some lemon juice and olive oil!
Step 5: Dress It Up
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over your bean mixture and drizzle with olive oil—about two tablespoons should do! Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything gently until well combined.
Step 6: Let It Chill
For best results (and flavor), let your salad chill in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes before serving. This allows all those fantastic flavors to mingle together like they’ve known each other forever!
Transfer to plates or serve directly from the bowl as a centerpiece at your next gathering. Top it off with extra parsley or basil if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every delightful bite of this Herby Mixed Bean Salad—it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes.
You Must Know
- This Herby Mixed Bean Salad is a delightful dish that offers a burst of flavors and colors.
- Perfect for meal prep, it’s as easy to customize as it is to devour.
- Serve it cold or at room temperature—your choice!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To ensure your Herby Mixed Bean Salad shines, start by rinsing and draining the beans. While those soak up all the good vibes, chop your veggies and herbs for maximum freshness. Mix everything in a large bowl, and toss with your favorite dressing!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! Swap out any beans for ones you prefer; chickpeas or black beans work like a charm. Add nuts for crunch or avocado for creaminess, and don’t forget a splash of citrus for that zing!
Storing & Reheating
Store your Herby Mixed Bean Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating needed—it’s best served cold! Just give it a good stir before enjoying again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium content and enhance flavor.
- Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes after mixing; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible; they elevate the entire dish with vibrant aromas and tastes.
Sharing this recipe takes me back to that sunny picnic day when my friends raved about how refreshing this salad was—it truly stole the spotlight!
FAQs:
What ingredients are used in Herby Mixed Bean Salad?
Herby Mixed Bean Salad features a delightful combination of various beans, fresh vegetables, and herbs. The main ingredients typically include canned mixed beans such as kidney beans, black beans, and chickpeas. You can also add diced bell peppers, cucumbers, red onions, and chopped parsley or cilantro. For the dressing, use olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors. This salad is not just nutritious but also colorful and appealing.
How can I make Herby Mixed Bean Salad more flavorful?
To elevate the flavor of your Herby Mixed Bean Salad, consider adding additional herbs and spices. Fresh basil or mint can introduce a unique taste. A splash of balsamic vinegar will provide tanginess. For some heat, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Tossing the salad well allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully. Letting it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavor even further.
Is Herby Mixed Bean Salad healthy?
Yes! Herby Mixed Bean Salad is a nutritious choice packed with protein from beans and vitamins from fresh vegetables. Beans are an excellent source of fiber which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. The inclusion of fresh herbs adds antioxidants while the olive oil provides healthy fats. This salad is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it a perfect option for a light meal or side dish.
Can I prepare Herby Mixed Bean Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing Herby Mixed Bean Salad ahead of time is not only convenient but often improves its taste as the flavors develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to keep it longer than that, consider keeping certain elements separate until serving to maintain freshness—such as adding fresh herbs just before eating.
Conclusion for Herby Mixed Bean Salad:
Herby Mixed Bean Salad offers a vibrant blend of tastes and textures that delight your palate while providing numerous health benefits. Using a variety of beans along with fresh vegetables creates a nutritious dish suitable for any meal. The flexibility in ingredients allows you to personalize this salad according to your preferences. Enjoy this colorful dish as a refreshing side or a light main course on warm days!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Herby Mixed Bean Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Herby Mixed Bean Salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish bursting with fresh flavors and colors. This delightful salad combines protein-rich mixed beans, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it perfect for picnics, barbecues, or meal prep. Enjoy it as a refreshing side or a light main course that’s both satisfying and healthy!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) mixed beans (chickpeas, kidney beans, black beans), rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse mixed beans under cold water in a colander until the water runs clear.
- Chop cherry tomatoes in half, dice cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and finely chop the red onion.
- Chop fresh parsley and basil leaves to release their aromas.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed beans, chopped vegetables, and herbs.
- Drizzle lemon juice and olive oil over the mixture; season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
