Chickpeas and white beans soak up a sharp mustard dressing with crunchy peppers, cucumber and briny olives. A substantial lunch that holds up in the fridge.
Every forkful of Dense Bean Salad carries more beans than leaves, so it stays substantial after dressing. A mix of chickpeas and creamy white beans gives the vegetables something sturdy to cling to, while vinegar cuts through the olive oil.
Rinse canned beans gently and dry the cucumber before chopping. A short rest lets the dressing season the beans all the way through without sacrificing the peppers' crunch.
Method
Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt and black pepper in a large bowl until the dressing looks slightly thickened.
Fold in the chickpeas, white beans, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, olives and parsley, taking care not to crush the white beans.
Rest for so the beans absorb the dressing. Toss from the bottom once more before dividing into bowls.
Forkue tips
- Dice the vegetables about the size of a chickpea so the beans and crunch land together on the fork.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate in sealed containers for 4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing; add extra parsley at the table for a fresh edge.
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Kitchen gear
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Dense Bean Salad: FAQ
Can I use different beans?
Yes. Kidney beans or black-eyed peas can replace either can, as long as they are cooked, drained and firm enough to hold their shape.
Can I make it without mustard?
Yes. Leave it out and whisk the oil and vinegar again just before tossing; the dressing will separate a little more readily.
How do I store and reheat Dense Bean Salad?
Refrigerate in sealed containers for 4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing; add extra parsley at the table for a fresh edge.
How long does Dense Bean Salad take?
About 30 min in total: 30 min prep and 0 min cooking.
What do I need to make Dense Bean Salad?
The key ingredients are canned chickpeas, canned white beans, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion and kalamata olives, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Dense Bean Salad?
Dice the vegetables about the size of a chickpea so the beans and crunch land together on the fork.
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