3 Bean Or "Calico" Salad
A vibrant, flavorful three-bean salad with crisp vegetables and tangy vinaigrette, perfect as a side dish for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Wesson oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the drained beans, chopped bell pepper, and sliced onion.
- Stir or turn the mixture once or twice to ensure the sauce penetrates all vegetables.
- Refrigerate and let sit for several days, turning often before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher taste, consider using fresh green beans instead of canned. You can also substitute the Wesson oil with olive oil for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter salad, increase the sugar to 1 cup. Adjust the seasonings to your liking; adding garlic powder or fresh herbs can enhance the flavor. This salad works well as a make-ahead dish, allowing the flavors to meld over time.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant 3 Bean Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches, making it a perfect summer side dish. It's also great for potlucks or picnics. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Marge'S Carrot Salad or a fresh green salad. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, like diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes, to customize it further.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. There's no need to reheat this salad; serve it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3 Bean Or "Calico" Salad contains roughly 364 calories, with 11g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1674mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Make sure to cook them until they're tender, then let them cool before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will ensure a great texture and flavor in your salad.
How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
This salad can last in the fridge for up to a week. The flavors will intensify over time, so it can be even more delicious after a couple of days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or corn for added crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the dressing to ensure all ingredients are well coated and balanced.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).