Three Bean Salad

When it comes to classic side dish salad recipes, you can’t go wrong with Three Bean Salad! With its vibrant flavors, tangy dressing, and plenty of crunch, it’s the perfect addition to your gatherings and holidays. It can also be served as a light, healthy meal!

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Why You Will Love Three Bean Salad

  • It is very easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this salad comes together in no time at all!
  • Tons of flavor in each bite. The combination of beans (three kinds, of course!), fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing creates a bold, tangy, and satisfying taste in every bite.
  • It doesn’t have to be a side dish – it can be a light meal as well. Thanks to protein-packed beans and an oil-based dressing, this dish can also be served as a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients Needed for this Easy 3-Bean Salad

Ingredient quantities for this easy three-bean salad recipe are located in the recipe card at the end of the post.

  1. Canned cut green beans
  2. Canned cut wax beans
  3. Canned kidney beans
  4. Sweet or red onion
  5. Green bell pepper
  6. Granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute)
  7. Salt
  8. Pepper
  9. White vinegar
  10. Soy sauce (optional)
  11. Vegetable oil or light olive oil

How To Make Three Bean Salad (Quick Overview)

The steps below are just a quick overview of how to make the recipe. The full process in detail is located in the recipe card at the end of the post.

Gather and prepare the vegetable ingredients. You’ll want to:

  • Drain the canned green beans
  • Drain the canned wax beans
  • Drain and rinse the canned kidney beans
  • Dice the onion
  • Dice the pepper
sideview of all the ingredients needed to make 3 bean salad

Add all of the vegetable ingredients to a bowl.

overhead view of each ingredient divided in the glass mixing bowl ready to be combined

Prepare the dressing by mixing the remaining ingredients in a small bowl.

overhead view of dressing ready to be added to the veggies

Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix to combine.

Loosely cover the salad with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, ideally overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.

overhead view of three bean salad in a serving bowl with a white ladle removing a portion size

Serve and enjoy!

If you would like to serve this as a light meal instead of a side dish, I recommend cutting the number of servings down to 6 (or fewer).

Summer Dinner Salads 🥗

Love salads? Then you’ll love exploring more summer meal salads like these:

  • Upgrade your Taco Tuesday with this taco salad. It’s quick to make, full of fresh ingredients, and a fun twist on a classic dish.
  • This burger salad has all the flavors you love: savory beef, tangy pickles, and crisp lettuce, all in one satisfying bowl.
  • Try this healthy Turkey Taco Salad. Zesty spices and juicy turkey come together in a dish that proves eating well can still be delicious.
  • Celebrate summer with this Chicken Salad with Strawberries. Juicy strawberries and tender chicken make for a refreshing, flavorful dish.
overhead view of three bean salad in a serving bowl

I hope you love this flavorful (and fabulous) salad recipe!

How to Store Three Bean Salad in the Refrigerator

Storing three bean salad is simple! Just transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh and flavorful. Make sure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent fridge odors. It can be refrigerated for 3-5 days, making it a great make-ahead option for meals or snacks. Before serving, give it a quick stir to mix the dressing and ensure every bite is just as tasty!

How to Store 3 Bean Salad in the Freezer

Freezing three bean salad is easy and extends its shelf life! Simply place it in a freezer-safe, airtight container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir before serving.

More Summer Salads to Enjoy

Looking for more easy summer salads that are great as picnic foods and cookout side dishes? Try these next.

  • Looking for a fresh fruit salad recipe? This sweet and refreshing dish is a must-make. It’s great for your next picnic, Easter celebration, or cookout.
  • Craving Italian flavors? This caprese salad combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil for a simple yet flavorful dish.
  • Want something extra? Try the zesty Italian antipasto salad, full of Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for gatherings or dinner parties.
  • Looking for a bold, crunchy side? This broccoli salad is packed with flavor and sure to be a beloved dish with your audience.
  • Some dishes are timeless! Classic potato salad is creamy, tangy, and always a hit.
  • Need a quick and easy side? Check out this macaroni salad. It’s flavorful, simple to make, and perfect for meal prep.
  • Keep it light and fresh with this homemade coleslaw. Tangy and crunchy, it pairs perfectly with all your grilled favorites!

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Three Bean Salad

overhead view of three bean salad ready to serve with a white ladle removing a portion size
When it comes to classic side dish salad recipes, you can't go wrong with Three Bean Salad! With its vibrant flavors, tangy dressing, and plenty of crunch, it's the perfect addition to your gatherings and holidays.
Servings 8
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Western
Keyword easy, homemade
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 15-oz can cut green beans (drained)
  • 15-oz can cut wax beans (drained)
  • 15-oz can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 medium sweet or red onion (diced)
  • 1/2 medium green bell pepper (diced)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or sugar substitute)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil or light olive oil

Instructions

  • Combine green beans, wax beans, kidney beans, onion, and bell pepper in a large bowl.
  • In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients to make a dressing. Pour dressing over vegetables and mix to coat.
  • Cover and place the salad in the fridge to chill for at least one hour, but ideally overnight.
  • Before serving, mix well.

Notes

  • Depending on the brand, some canned beans may contain slightly less or slightly more than 15 oz. As long as it’s close, you’re good to go!
  • If you want to serve this as a light meal, I recommend cutting the number of servings down to 6 (or fewer).

Nutrition Estimates (Per Serving)

Calories: 197kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.05g | Sodium: 434mg | Potassium: 397mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 395IU | Vitamin C: 25mg | Calcium: 65mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutrition Estimates are per serving and included as a courtesy only. They are accurate to the best of our knowledge based on the ingredients and brands used, but their accuracy is not guaranteed.

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