Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine? Look no further than this Italian Marinated Bean Salad! Bursting with the flavors of plump kidney and garbanzo beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty red onion, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a healthy powerhouse of nutrients. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful salad that’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a light side dish for any meal. Get ready to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds with this easy-to-make recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can kidney beans, rinsed
- 1 can garbanzo beans, rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain and thoroughly rinse the kidney beans and garbanzo beans in a colander under cold running water. Shake off excess water and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Wash the cherry tomatoes and carefully slice them in half lengthwise. Add the halved tomatoes to the bean mixture.
- Peel the red onion and dice it into small, uniform pieces approximately 1/4 inch in size. Add the diced red onion to the bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar to create the marinade. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the bean, tomato, and onion mixture. Gently toss all ingredients to ensure even coating and distribution of the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. For best results, let the salad marinate for 1-2 hours before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.
Tips
- Rinse Well: Ensure you rinse the kidney and garbanzo beans thoroughly to remove any excess sodium and improve their flavor.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best taste, allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours. This will help the flavors meld beautifully.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness and flavor.
- Season to Taste: Before serving, always taste the salad and adjust the seasoning. A little extra salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice can elevate the dish even further.
- Serve It Right: This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Enjoy it as a side or as a light lunch on its own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
