Description
A refreshing and zesty Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad featuring a vibrant mix of chickpeas, white beans, and black beans tossed with fresh cherry tomatoes, red onion, and aromatic basil, all dressed in a lemony vinaigrette. Perfect as a light, protein-packed side or a stand-alone vegetarian dish.
Ingredients
Beans
- 1, 15oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1, 15oz can white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1, 15oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1/4 medium red onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed or minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered or halved
- Zest of one lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, minced
Dressing
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)
- Juice of two lemons
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt or more to taste
- Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the rinsed and drained chickpeas, white beans, and black beans along with the minced red onion, crushed garlic, quartered cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, and fresh basil. This ensures all flavors start blending early on.
- Add Dressing: Pour the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil (if using), garlic powder, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and fresh cracked black pepper over the bean mixture. The lemon juice provides the tangy base while the olive oil adds richness.
- Toss and Marinate: Gently toss all the ingredients until evenly coated and fully combined. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to let flavors meld and develop before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the salad for at least one hour, but it can be kept for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Olive oil is optional but recommended for added richness and mouthfeel.
- Adjust salt and red pepper flakes to your taste preferences.
- This salad is great served chilled and makes an excellent make-ahead dish for picnics or potlucks.
- Feel free to swap or add other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
