Southwestern Bean Salad

Southwestern Bean Salad Recipe - Made with Kidney Beans, Black Beans, Celery, and More

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Southwestern Bean Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or as a side dish for any meal. This salad is packed with protein and fiber from the beans, and the fresh vegetables add a burst of flavor and color. The tangy salsa dressing gives it a spicy kick that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

History

Southwestern Bean Salad is a popular dish in the Southwestern United States, where beans are a staple in many traditional recipes. This salad is a modern twist on classic bean salads, incorporating ingredients like salsa and cumin to give it a unique flavor profile. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish, a topping for tacos or nachos, or even as a main course.

Ingredients

1 (15.5 oz (439 g)) can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz (425 g)) can of black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15.5 oz (439 g)) can of garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
2 celery ribs, sliced
1 medium red onion, diced
1 medium tomato, diced
1 cup of frozen corn, thawed
DRESSING
0.75 cup of thick & chunky salsa
0.25 cup of vegetable oil
0.25 cup of lime juice
1.5 tsp of chili powder
1 tsp of salt (optional)
0.5 tsp of ground cumin

How to prepare

1. In a bowl, combine beans, celery, onion, tomato, and corn.
2. In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients; mix well.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture; toss to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Variations

Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
Swap out the kidney beans for pinto beans or black-eyed peas.
Mix in some cooked quinoa or brown rice for added protein and fiber.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse and drain the canned beans thoroughly to remove excess salt and starch.

- For a spicier salad, add a diced jalapeno pepper to the mix.

- You can customize this salad by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, avocado, or cilantro.

- Make sure to let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southwestern Bean Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak, or as a topping for tacos or nachos. It also makes a great addition to a picnic or potluck spread.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires no cooking, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare. Simply mix the ingredients together and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any variety of beans you have on hand, such as pinto beans, black beans, or navy beans.

- Substitute the salsa with a homemade pico de gallo for a fresher flavor.

- Swap out the vegetable oil for olive oil or avocado oil.

Make Ahead Tips

Southwestern Bean Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Southwestern Bean Salad in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced avocado. You can also serve it in individual mason jars for a fun and portable option.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Southwestern Bean Salad with grilled meats, such as chicken, steak, or shrimp. It also pairs well with Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Southwestern Bean Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 38g

Dietary Fiber: 10g

Sugar: 4g

Fats

Total Fat: 7g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 9g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 6%

Vitamin C: 15%

Calcium: 6%

Iron: 15%

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Southwestern Bean Salad is a healthy and nutritious dish that is high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking for a filling and satisfying meal.

Summary

Southwestern Bean Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this salad is a healthy and satisfying option for vegetarians and vegans. Enjoy it as a side dish, a topping, or a main course for a delicious and filling meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, just like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook at a garage sale. The title "Southwestern Bean Salad" caught my eye, and I knew I had to try it out.

I had always been a lover of all things spicy and flavorful, and this recipe seemed to fit the bill perfectly. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the bold flavors of the black beans, corn, and spicy dressing. It was as if the recipe was calling out to me, begging to be made.

After purchasing the cookbook for a mere fifty cents, I hurried home to gather the necessary ingredients. I didn't have everything on hand, but I was determined to make do with what I had. I substituted red bell pepper for green, and jalapeño for the chipotle pepper called for in the recipe. I knew that cooking was all about being creative and making the dish your own.

As I chopped and diced the vegetables, the kitchen filled with the delicious aroma of fresh produce. The colors of the red peppers, yellow corn, and black beans popped against the white ceramic bowl I was using. I could already tell that this salad was going to be a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Once I had mixed everything together and tossed it with the zesty dressing, I couldn't resist taking a small taste. The flavors exploded in my mouth – sweet corn, earthy beans, and a kick of spice from the jalapeño. It was a perfect balance of flavors, and I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.

I decided to bring the Southwestern Bean Salad to a family gathering that weekend. As I set it down on the picnic table, the vibrant colors of the salad caught everyone's eye. My family members were hesitant at first, unsure of what to make of this exotic dish. But once they took their first bite, their faces lit up with delight.

The salad was a hit, disappearing within minutes as everyone went back for seconds and thirds. I was thrilled to see my loved ones enjoying my creation, and I knew that this recipe would be a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made the Southwestern Bean Salad countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. I have added avocado for creaminess, cilantro for freshness, and even grilled chicken for a heartier version. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that sunny day at the garage sale, discovering a recipe that would become a beloved tradition in my family.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its delicious flavors and simple preparation. I have passed it down to my children and grandchildren, who now make the salad on their own and add their own twists to the recipe.

As I sit here in my kitchen, preparing another batch of Southwestern Bean Salad, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous moment that led me to discover this gem of a recipe. It has brought joy and connection to my family and friends, and has become a cherished part of our culinary heritage.

So here's to the Southwestern Bean Salad – a dish that has brought me so much happiness and satisfaction over the years. May it continue to be enjoyed and loved by generations to come, just as it has been by me.