Dinner

Old Fashioned Three Bean Salad Recipe

Bylina Carter January 21, 2026January 21, 2026

Introduction

This Old Fashioned Three Bean Salad is a refreshing and tangy side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a simple family meal. Combining a trio of beans with crisp vegetables and a sweet vinegar dressing, it’s both easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying.

The image shows a close-up of a white shallow bowl filled with a colorful bean salad. The salad has three layers: the bottom layer is mostly pale yellowish beans, mixed with a smaller amount of red kidney beans and green beans all evenly spread. On top, there are small pieces of chopped white onion and bright green chopped parsley scattered over the beans. A woman's hand holds a silver fork resting inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is placed on a rustic wooden table with a blue and white checked cloth to the left and some fresh herbs around it. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

14 ounces canned green beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)
14 ounces canned yellow beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)

14 ounces canned red kidney beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)
14 ounces canned lima beans (1 can, drained and rinsed, optional)

½ cup green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
¾ cup sliced white onion

¾ cup diced celery (chopped)
⅔ cup granulated sugar
½ cup white vinegar

½ cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon celery seed

½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Drain all of the beans thoroughly and rinse them under cold water. In a large bowl, combine the green beans, yellow beans, red kidney beans, lima beans (if using), green bell pepper, celery, and white onion.
Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, white vinegar, vegetable oil, salt, celery seed, and black pepper. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.

Step 3: Pour the hot dressing over the bean mixture. Toss everything gently to coat evenly with the dressing.
Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight. Stir or turn the salad occasionally to distribute the dressing and flavors well before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add chopped fresh carrots or radishes.

Adjust the sugar to vinegar ratio if you prefer a sweeter or tangier dressing.
Use fresh green beans and yellow wax beans if available for a vibrant texture.
Celery seed can be swapped with a pinch of dried dill for a different flavor profile.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but it’s best enjoyed within this time for optimal freshness. Serve cold or at room temperature. Stir well before serving if it has been refrigerated.