Description
This vibrant Mixed Bean Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish perfect as a light meal or side. Combining a variety of beans with crisp bell pepper, juicy tomato, and aromatic cilantro, it is dressed with a tangy lime juice and apple cider vinegar blend spiced with cumin and coriander. Quick to prepare and naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, this salad is a nutritious and satisfying option for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans and Vegetables
- 3 cans (15-ounce each) of any kind of beans you like, drained, thoroughly rinsed, and drained again
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- ½ of a red onion, minced
- 1 medium tomato, seeded and diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 handful of cilantro, chopped
Dressing and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon apple cider or sherry vinegar
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Vegetables and Beans: In a large bowl, mix together the drained beans, diced red bell pepper, minced red onion, diced tomato, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro until evenly distributed.
- Add Dressing and Season: Add the apple cider or sherry vinegar, lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well to ensure the beans and vegetables are fully coated with the dressing and spices.
- Let it Marinate: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld and intensify for a more vibrant taste.
Notes
- Any variety of canned beans works well; a mix such as black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas adds great texture and color.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper.
- This salad can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Adjust vinegar and lime juice quantities to taste for desired acidity.
- Optional additions include diced avocado or corn for extra creaminess and sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mixed bean salad, bean salad, easy salad, vegetarian salad, gluten free salad, healthy salad, no-cook salad, summer salad
