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–+ servings
Three Bean Salad
Three Bean Salad is a timeless American picnic and potluck staple, prized for its tangy-sweet dressing and vibrant trio of beans. It's known for its ease of preparation and long shelf life, often getting better after a day or two as the flavors meld. This version includes a crunchy mix of bell peppers and onions, with a sweet-tart marinade that infuses every bite. Great for summer gatherings or as a make-ahead side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 12 hours
Total Time 12 hours 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 208 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 303 can French cut green beans (, drained)
  • 1 303 can yellow wax beans (drained)
  • 1 303 can red kidney beans (drained)
  • ½ cup green pepper (minced )
  • 1 Bermuda onion (large, sliced and rings pushed out)
  • ½ cup salad oil
  • ½ cup white vinegar
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper

Instructions
 

Step 1: Drain and Prep

  • Drain all canned beans thoroughly.
  • Slice onion into thin rings and mince green pepper.

Step 2: Mix the Veggies

  • In a large glass bowl, combine the beans, green pepper, and onion.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together salad oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

  • Pour dressing over the bean mixture. Toss lightly to coat.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 12 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips

  • Add sliced celery for extra crunch.
  • Replace granulated sugar with honey or a sugar substitute.
  • Add canned chickpeas to make a four-bean variation.
  • Use red onion instead of Bermuda onion for color.
  • Swap white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a mellower tang.
  • Add minced garlic or garlic powder for deeper flavor.
  • Stir in chopped parsley for freshness.
  • For a lighter version, cut the oil in half.
  • Add sliced pimentos or roasted red peppers for color.
  • Use low-sodium canned beans to reduce overall salt.

Nutrition

Calories: 208kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 335mgPotassium: 47mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 36IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 7mgIron: 0.1mg
Keyword cold salad, heirloom recipe, make-ahead salad, marinated beans, picnic, potluck, potluck classic, summer recipe, three bean salad, vintage recipe
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