So, you want to learn cooking, but don’t know where to start? No worries, I’ve got your back!
Today, I’m going to walk you through a super easy and delicious recipe: Three Bean Salad.
Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a simple dish to whip up, this recipe is perfect for you.
Now, why Three Bean Salad, you ask? Well, not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Plus, it’s customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
I’ll break down the ingredients you’ll need, the simple steps to prepare it, and some tips to make it even more flavorful.
What is Three Bean Salad?
Three Bean Salad is a refreshing, tangy, and nutritious dish made with three different types of beans, typically green beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas.
It’s dressed in a zesty vinaigrette, making it a perfect side dish or a healthy main course for a light lunch.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step in the culinary process.
For this salad, you’ll need:
- Green Beans: 250g, fresh and trimmed
- Kidney Beans: 1 can (about 400g), drained and rinsed
- Chickpeas: 1 can (about 400g), drained and rinsed
- Red Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Parsley: A handful, freshly chopped
- For the Dressing:
- Olive Oil: 60ml
- White Wine Vinegar: 30ml
- Lemon Juice: From 1 lemon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Instructions
Preparing the Beans
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Beans: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans, drained kidney beans, and chickpeas.
Making the Dressing
- Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss gently to ensure all the beans are evenly coated.
Finishing Touches
- Add the Aromatics: Add the chopped red onion and parsley to the bean mixture. Toss the salad gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavours to meld together and the beans to absorb the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Three Bean Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats or fish.
- As a Main Course: Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a fulfilling meal.
- As a Picnic Staple: Its robust nature makes it ideal for outdoor meals.
Tips for Success
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavour.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Let it Marinate: Allowing the salad to chill and marinate enhances its flavour.
We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to make a delightful Three Bean Salad.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavour.