Summer is here, which means it’s time to break out the refreshing bean salad recipes! Beans are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and they’re incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a filling main course, beans can do it all. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and easy-to-make bean salad recipes that are perfect for hot summer days.
From Mediterranean-inspired chickpea salads to spicy edamame quinoa bowls, these recipes offer a wide range of flavors and textures to suit any taste. We’ll start with some classic combinations, like our Three-Bean Salad with Fresh Herbs or the Southwestern Black Bean and Corn Salad. Then we’ll move on to some more adventurous options, such as the Greek White Bean Salad with Feta and Olives or the Moroccan Spiced Chickpea and Carrot Salad.
So grab a glass of iced tea, put on your comfiest sandals, and get ready to dive into the world of bean salads! In our next section, we’ll explore some international twists on classic bean salad recipes. Stay tuned!
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a creamy lemon tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Southwestern Black Bean and Corn Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine with the comfort of black beans and corn.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. Stir in cilantro, lime juice, and cumin until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (marinating time)
Three-Bean Salad with Fresh Herbs
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this Three-Bean Salad with Fresh Herbs combines the natural sweetness of beans with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, kidney beans, and cannellini beans.
2. Add the chopped parsley, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice to the bean mixture. Toss until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Greek White Bean Salad with Feta and Olives
Greek White Bean Salad with Feta and Olives: A refreshing summer side dish that combines creamy cannellini beans, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked cannellini beans, crumbled feta cheese, sliced green olives, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the bean mixture, and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Edamame and Quinoa Salad
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tender, slightly spicy edamame for a healthy and flavorful side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup frozen edamame, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add the cooked quinoa and edamame to the bowl; toss until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking time for quinoa and edamame)
Asian-Inspired Green Bean Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of green beans with the nutty flavor of sesame, perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss green beans with sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together chopped scallions and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Combine roasted green beans and scallion mixture in a large bowl.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lentil and Kidney Bean Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
A hearty and flavorful salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the nutritional benefits of lentils and kidney beans with the tanginess of balsamic vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils and kidney beans.
2. Add the chopped red bell pepper and parsley to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the bean mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time), ready in 20 minutes
Mexican Pinto Bean Salad with Avocado and Lime
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the creaminess of avocado, tanginess of lime juice, and earthy taste of pinto beans. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pinto beans
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 teaspoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pinto beans, avocado, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss gently.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, drizzle with olive oil and toss again.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (assuming cooked pinto beans)
Enjoy your delicious Mexican Pinto Bean Salad with Avocado and Lime!
Roasted Beet and White Bean Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, featuring roasted beets and creamy white beans.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled beets, cannellini beans, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Tuscan Cannellini Bean Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This hearty salad is a perfect blend of creamy beans, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and tangy olive oil. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch for a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cannellini beans, parsley, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Add garlic and mix well.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chickpea and Carrot Salad
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this hearty and healthy salad, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Moroccan spice blend (containing cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Moroccan spice blend, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the chickpeas and toss until well coated with the spice mixture.
4. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Meanwhile, combine the grated carrots in a bowl.
6. Once the chickpeas are done, add them to the carrot mixture and toss gently to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black-Eyed Pea Salad with Bell Peppers and Red Onion
This refreshing salad combines the creamy sweetness of black-eyed peas with the crunch of bell peppers and the pungency of red onion, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black-eyed peas
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for a tangy twist)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, black-eyed peas, bell peppers, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar; toss gently to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad just before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time)
Warm Green Bean and Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing
A hearty and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion, this warm salad combines tender green beans and potatoes with a tangy mustard dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook green beans until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add diced potatoes and boil for 10-12 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside with green beans.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Whisk in Dijon mustard and flour to make the dressing.
6. Combine cooked green beans, potatoes, and mustard dressing in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fiesta Black Bean and Mango Salad
Celebrate the flavors of Mexico with this vibrant and refreshing salad, perfect for a summer evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Sprinkle cilantro over the top and squeeze lime juice over the salad.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
White Bean and Tuna Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing
Brighten up your lunch or dinner with this refreshing salad, featuring creamy white beans, protein-rich tuna, and a zesty lemon dill dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 6 oz canned tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cannellini beans, tuna, parsley, and dill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean-tuna mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chickpea and Cucumber Salad with Yogurt Dressing
A light and refreshing salad perfect for a hot summer day, this recipe combines the creamy texture of yogurt with the crunch of cucumber and chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas and cucumber slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt dressing over the chickpea-cucumber mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Bean and Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this unique salad recipe. Sweet potatoes add a deliciously roasted twist to the classic red bean combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can red beans (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in red beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with the red bean mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Herbed Lima Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This fresh and flavorful salad combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the earthy goodness of herbed lima beans, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lima beans and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked lima beans to the bowl and stir to combine.
4. Halve cherry tomatoes and add to the bowl with lima beans.
5. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing bean salad recipes! From Mediterranean chickpea salads to spicy edamame and quinoa bowls, there’s something for everyone. Try the Southwestern black bean and corn salad with a zesty lime dressing or the Greek white bean salad with feta and olives for a taste of the Mediterranean. Or, opt for a lighter option like the Asian-inspired green bean salad with sesame dressing. Whatever your flavor, these 18 recipes are sure to be a hit at your next outdoor gathering or potluck.