Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite *Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad*! It’s such a refreshing dish that’s bursting with bright flavors—perfect for those warm summer days or anytime you need a quick, healthy meal. The combination of crisp green beans, hearty chickpeas, and zesty lemon makes every bite feel like a celebration! What I love most is how versatile it is; whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a family barbecue, or just for a light lunch, it fits right in. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat!

Ingredients for Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad

1 cup green beans, trimmed: Fresh and crunchy, these little gems add a delightful snap to the salad. Just trim the ends to prepare them for blanching.
1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed: These beans bring a hearty texture and a pop of color. Make sure to rinse them well to remove any excess sodium.
1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Also known as garbanzo beans, they add a lovely creaminess that balances the crunch of the other ingredients.
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: The sharpness of red onion gives a nice kick. Finely chopping it helps distribute the flavor evenly throughout the salad.
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Oh, the aroma! Fresh basil adds a burst of herbal brightness that really elevates the salad. Make sure to chop it just before adding for the best flavor.
1/4 cup olive oil: This rich and flavorful oil is essential for the dressing. It brings everything together beautifully and adds a luscious mouthfeel.
1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best! The acidity from the lemon juice brightens the dish and enhances all those wonderful flavors.
Salt to taste: Just a pinch will do! It enhances the flavors of the beans and veggies, but be careful if you’re using canned beans since they might be salty already.
Pepper to taste: A few cracks from the pepper mill add just the right amount of warmth and depth to the salad.

How to Prepare Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad

Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the green beans and blanch them for about 3 minutes. This quick cooking method keeps them crisp and vibrant!
After 3 minutes, carefully drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and helps them retain that gorgeous green color.
While the green beans are cooling, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the green beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, red onion, and basil. Toss everything gently to mix; you want the colors to shine!
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing is where all the magic happens, so make sure it’s well combined and tastes bright and zesty.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and use a spatula to toss everything together. Ensure each bean and piece of onion is well coated with that delicious dressing.
Now, here comes a crucial step: cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more delicious dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: You can whip this salad up in just about 15 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein from the beans and fresh veggies, it’s a guilt-free option that keeps you feeling great!
Flavorful: The vibrant combination of lemon and basil creates a bright, zesty flavor that dances on your palate—it’s like a party in your mouth!
Versatile: Whether it’s a side dish at a barbecue, a light lunch, or a refreshing addition to your meal prep, it fits seamlessly into any occasion.
Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare this salad a day in advance without losing any freshness, which is a total game changer for meal planning!
Vegan and gluten-free: This salad caters to various dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table.

Tips for Success with Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad

Alright, let me share some of my best tips to ensure your *Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad* turns out absolutely perfect every single time!

Adjusting the seasoning: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away. Start with a little, taste, and adjust until it sings.
Fresh is best: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients! The flavor of freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped basil can really elevate this salad. Dried herbs just don’t compare!
Chill time is key: While I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, letting it chill for at least 30 minutes really allows those flavors to mingle and deepen. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Mix it up: Feel free to add other veggies like diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. It’s a great way to use what you have on hand!
Serving suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish! You could also serve it over a bed of greens for a heartier meal. Yum!
Storing leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for a couple of days, but the beans may soak up the dressing, so add a splash more lemon juice before serving again.

With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making this delicious salad in no time. Enjoy the process and have fun experimenting!

Variations for Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad

If you’re feeling adventurous (and I totally encourage that!), there are so many fun ways to switch things up with your *Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad*. Here are some ideas that can add a little twist to your creation:

Different Beans: Swap out the kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans! Each type has its own unique flavor and texture that can change the whole vibe of the salad.
Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, diced cucumbers, or even sweet corn for an extra crunch and burst of color. It makes the salad even more visually appealing!
Herb Variety: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even mint instead of basil. Each herb will bring its own distinctive flavor—how exciting is that?
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It’ll give the salad a nice kick that pairs wonderfully with the lemony dressing!
Nutty Flavor: For some added texture, throw in a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts. They provide a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the beans perfectly.
Fruit Twist: Try adding some diced avocado or even some fresh mango for a touch of sweetness! It balances the acidity of the lemon and adds a creamy texture.

The beauty of this salad is in its flexibility! Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home or what flavors you’re craving. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

Nutritional Information for Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad

Alright, let’s talk nutrition! This *Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad* is not just delicious; it’s also packed with good-for-you ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 200
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 150mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates, and they can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. But overall, this salad is a great way to get your daily dose of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats! Enjoy every bite knowing it’s as nutritious as it is tasty!

FAQ About Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad

I’ve gathered some of the most common questions I get about my *Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad*, and I’m excited to help you out! Whether you’re curious about storage, substitutions, or anything else, you’ll find the answers right here.

Can I use canned beans for this salad?
Absolutely! Canned beans are super convenient and work perfectly in this salad. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well to reduce sodium content and improve flavor.

How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days. Just remember that the beans might soak up the dressing, so feel free to add a splash of lemon juice before serving again!

Can I make this salad a day in advance?
Yes, indeed! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?
No worries! You can use dried basil in a pinch, but I highly recommend using fresh for the best flavor. If you’re out of basil entirely, try substituting with parsley or cilantro for a different twist!

Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! This salad is already packed with protein from the beans, but if you want to add more, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some crumbled feta cheese would be delicious additions.

Is it okay to omit the onion?
If you’re not a fan of raw onion, feel free to leave it out! You can add diced bell peppers for crunch or even some sliced radishes for a bit of bite instead.

What’s the best way to serve this salad?
I love serving it chilled as a side dish, but you can also make it a main by adding it on top of mixed greens or alongside grilled meats. It’s super versatile!

Hopefully, these answers help you make the most of your *Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad*! If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad

Storing your *Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad* is super easy, and trust me, you’ll want to keep those delicious leftovers for later! After you’ve enjoyed your fresh creation, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This keeps them safe from drying out or absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.

This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so just pop it in the refrigerator, and it’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. Now, a little note: as the salad sits, the beans might soak up some of that lovely dressing. If you find it a bit dryer the next day, just drizzle in a splash of lemon juice or some olive oil before serving to revive it!

Reheating isn’t really necessary for this salad, as it’s meant to be enjoyed cold. But if you absolutely want to warm it up, I recommend gently heating it in a skillet over low heat. Just be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants mushy beans!

So, whether you’re enjoying it straight from the fridge or giving it a little pep-up, this salad is a fantastic make-ahead option that tastes just as great the next day. Enjoy every bite!

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad

Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious *Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad*, let’s talk about how to serve it for a complete and satisfying meal! This salad is incredibly versatile, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, flavorful grilled chicken makes a perfect protein companion. The smokiness of the chicken complements the bright flavors of the salad beautifully.
Fish Tacos: Serve this salad alongside some fresh fish tacos for a delightful contrast! The crispy fish and zesty lime will harmonize perfectly with the lemony beans.
Quinoa or Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the salad over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice. It adds a nice base and makes it more filling!
Stuffed Peppers: Pair it with stuffed bell peppers filled with your favorite grains and veggies. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the stuffing.
Bread Basket: Don’t forget some crusty bread or warm pita on the side! It’s great for scooping up the salad and adds a lovely texture to the meal.
Vegetable Skewers: Grilled or roasted vegetable skewers can take your meal to the next level. They add a smoky flavor that complements the freshness of the salad.
Oven-Baked Falafel: These crispy bites are a fantastic plant-based pairing! The herbs and spices in falafel will mesh well with the lemony notes in the salad.

Mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. The beauty of the *Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad* is that it can shine as a side or be the star of your meal. Enjoy exploring your serving options!

Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad: 7 Delicious Reasons to Try

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing and chilling
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing salad featuring a variety of beans, lemon, and basil.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3 minutes.
Drain and cool the green beans in ice water.
In a large bowl, combine the green beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, red onion, and basil.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

This salad can be made a day in advance.
Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Serve chilled for best flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 200
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Lemon Basil Three Bean Salad

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