Old-Fashioned Bean Salad Recipe
Introduction
Old-Fashioned Bean Salad is a simple, tangy side dish perfect for picnics and potlucks. Combining mixed beans with a lightly sweetened vinegar dressing, it’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed beans (canned or cooked)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mixed beans and chopped onion.
- Step 2: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vinegar and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 3: Pour the vinegar mixture over the beans and onion, then toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Step 4: Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill to add a bright flavor boost.
- Substitute red wine vinegar for a deeper tang.
- Add diced bell peppers or celery for extra crunch.
- Rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and improve texture.
Storage
Store the bean salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled but can be served at room temperature if preferred.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cooked beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh cooked beans work wonderfully. Just be sure to cool them completely before mixing to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 1 hour is recommended so the flavors blend well, but you can leave it overnight for an even better taste.
PrintOld-Fashioned Bean Salad Recipe
A classic Old-Fashioned Bean Salad featuring a medley of mixed beans tossed with onions and a tangy, slightly sweet vinegar dressing. This refreshing and easy-to-make salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed beans (canned or cooked, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Drain and rinse the mixed beans if using canned. Finely chop the onion to ensure it blends well with the beans.
- Toss Salad: In a large bowl, combine the beans and chopped onions. Add the vinegar and sugar, then mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.
- Serve: After chilling, give the salad a good stir and serve as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- You can use a variety of beans such as kidney beans, chickpeas, black beans, or green beans based on preference.
- Adjust the sugar and vinegar quantities to taste if you prefer it sweeter or more tangy.
- For added freshness, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
- This salad stores well and often tastes better the next day as flavors develop.
Keywords: bean salad, old-fashioned salad, mixed bean salad, easy side dish, picnic recipe
