Delicious Italian Grinder Bean Salad with fresh vegetables and beans

Italian Grinder Bean Salad

by
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

The Italian Grinder Bean Salad is a delightful and healthy dish perfect for any meal. With its colorful mix of beans and fresh vegetables, it not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrients. This salad is easy to prepare and makes for a refreshing side, a hearty main dish, or a delicious picnic option. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.

How to Make Italian Grinder Bean Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cannellini beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to combine.
  4. Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve Italian Grinder Bean Salad

Italian Grinder Bean Salad can be served as a side dish or a light main course. It pairs well with grilled meats, wraps, or can be enjoyed on its own. For an added touch, consider serving it with crusty bread or over a bed of greens.

How to Store Italian Grinder Bean Salad

To store this salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. The flavors may deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. However, if you add fresh ingredients like tomatoes and cucumbers, they may become mushy over time.

Tips to Make Italian Grinder Bean Salad

  • Rinse the beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium.
  • Let the salad sit for a while before serving to enhance the flavors.
  • Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you like more tanginess, add extra vinegar.

Variation

Feel free to customize this salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or avocados. You can also substitute different herbs such as basil or cilantro for a unique flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans. Just make sure to soak and cook them before adding to the salad.

2. Is this salad vegan?

Yes, the Italian Grinder Bean Salad is completely vegan and does not contain any animal products.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge and enjoy it when you’re ready!

Italian Grinder Bean Salad

A delightful and healthy mix of colorful beans and fresh vegetables, perfect as a side dish or light main course.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Healthy, Italian
Calories: 260
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed Rinsing helps to reduce sodium.
  • 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed Rinsing helps to reduce sodium.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Use ripe tomatoes for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced Fresh cucumbers add crunch.
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced Soaking in water can reduce sharpness.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Substitute with other fresh herbs if desired.
Dressing Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Quality olive oil enhances the flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar Adjust according to taste preference.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Can substitute with fresh oregano.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Adjust seasoning as preferred.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cannellini beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to combine.
  4. Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

The salad can be served as a side dish or a light main course. For best flavor, let it sit before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.