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Old-Fashioned Red Bean Salad

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A refreshing and classic old-fashioned red bean salad made with tender kidney beans, crisp vegetables, and a tangy homemade dressing—perfect for a quick, healthy side or light meal.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Finely chop the red onion, celery, and green bell pepper into small, even pieces.
  2. Drain and rinse the kidney beans under cold water and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add the chopped vegetables to the beans and gently toss to combine.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
  5. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and stir gently to coat evenly.
  6. Add the chopped parsley and toss lightly.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

  • Soak chopped onion in cold water to reduce sharpness if desired.
  • Chilling enhances flavor—longer resting time improves taste.
  • Use apple cider or red wine vinegar for a flavor variation.
  • Add hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
  • Pickle relish can add a sweet tangy twist.
  • Chickpeas or small red beans can replace kidney beans.
  • Add cucumbers, tomatoes, or olives for more texture and color.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg