Dense Bean Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dense Bean Salad is a hearty, protein-packed dish perfect for meal prepping, potlucks, or a quick nutritious lunch. With a variety of beans, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad offers texture, flavor, and lasting satisfaction. It’s easy to make, customizable, and gets even better after a few hours in the fridge.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

canned kidney beans
canned chickpeas
black beans
celery
red onion
cherry tomatoes
parsley
olive oil
red wine vinegar
lemon juice
Dijon mustard
salt
black pepper
garlic powder

directions

Drain and rinse all canned beans thoroughly, then add them to a large mixing bowl.

Dice the celery, red onion, and cherry tomatoes, then add them to the bowl with the beans.

Chop fresh parsley and mix it in for added freshness.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss everything until well coated.

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add diced avocado or feta cheese for creaminess.
Use lime juice instead of lemon for a twist.
Include corn or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
Top with crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

storage/reheating

Store Dense Bean Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the beans and vegetables may suffer.
No reheating necessary—best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand until tender.

How long should I chill the salad?

At least 30 minutes is ideal, but overnight will enhance the flavor even more.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Can I add grains?

Absolutely—quinoa, farro, or bulgur make great additions for a more filling salad.

What’s the best type of mustard for the dressing?

Dijon mustard provides a nice tang, but yellow mustard works in a pinch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep and holds up well for several days.

What if I don’t like red onion?

You can use green onions or shallots, or omit entirely.

How do I keep the beans from getting mushy?

Drain and rinse well, and mix gently to avoid breaking them up.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s colorful, healthy, and easy to customize to suit picky eaters.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Sure, but homemade dressing gives better control over flavor and ingredients.

Conclusion

Dense Bean Salad is a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based meal, a crowd-pleasing side, or an easy lunch, this salad delivers on all fronts. Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long—your future self will thank you!

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