Three Bean Medley Salad is a delightful dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of beans with a tangy-sweet dressing. This recipe has stood the test of time, cherished by families for its simplicity and delicious flavor profile. Whether you’re preparing for a potluck, a quick meal fix in under 15 minutes, or seeking a no-cook option, this salad ticks all the boxes. It’s a refrigerator staple, perfect for those busy days when you need something nutritious and satisfying without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe epitomizes simplicity without compromising on taste. The combination of kidney beans, green beans, and onions creates a symphony of textures and flavors, enhanced by a dressing made with sugar, red wine vinegar, oil, and seasoning salt. Each ingredient plays its part, contributing to the overall harmony of the dish.
Let’s delve into the nutritional aspect of this salad. Clocking in at approximately 304.5 calories per serving, this salad offers a balance of macronutrients essential for a well-rounded meal. It contains 14.5 grams of fat, primarily from the oil used in the dressing, which adds richness and depth to the flavor. With a modest 2 grams of saturated fat and no cholesterol, it’s a heart-healthy option suitable for those watching their lipid intake.
In terms of sodium content, this salad registers at 343.9 milligrams per serving. While this may seem relatively high, it’s important to consider that the seasoning salt contributes to this value. However, you can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences or opt for a low-sodium alternative without compromising on taste.
Carbohydrates are provided in abundance, with each serving containing 37.5 grams, making it a satisfying option to fuel your day. Additionally, the salad boasts an impressive fiber content of 9.5 grams, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety. For those mindful of their sugar intake, it’s worth noting that this salad contains approximately 16.9 grams of sugar per serving, derived from the natural sweetness of the dressing ingredients.
Protein content is also noteworthy, with each serving delivering 8 grams, thanks to the beans and onions. This makes it a suitable option for vegetarians and a great way to incorporate plant-based protein into your diet.
Now, let’s walk through the preparation steps. Begin by gathering your ingredients and a large bowl. In the bowl, combine the sugar, oil, red wine vinegar, and seasoning salt, whisking until well incorporated. This forms the base of your dressing, infusing the salad with a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
Next, add the kidney beans, green beans, and finely chopped onions to the bowl, tossing everything together until evenly coated with the dressing. The vibrant colors and fresh aromas herald the promise of a delicious dish.
Once combined, cover the bowl and allow the flavors to meld together by marinating in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This step is crucial for allowing the beans to absorb the flavors of the dressing, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful salad.
When ready to serve, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing, ensuring each bite is infused with the delicious medley of flavors. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a finishing touch.
Whether enjoyed as a side dish, a light lunch, or a nutritious snack, this Three Bean Medley Salad is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. With its simplicity, versatility, and satisfying taste, it’s a recipe that embodies the essence of home cooking and shared meals with loved ones. So go ahead, whip up a batch today and savor the goodness of this timeless classic.
