Betty'S Three Bean Salad
A colorful and tangy bean salad featuring a blend of vegetables and a sweet-sour dressing, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and wash the canned beans.
- Add the onion rings, green peppers, and celery to the beans.
- Prepare the dressing by combining sugar, vinegar, salad oil, salt, pepper, and curry powder.
- Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture.
- Mix well and let stand overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresh twist, consider adding diced cucumbers or shredded carrots to the salad. If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute the salad oil with a Greek yogurt-based dressing. You can also use fresh green beans instead of canned for a crunchier texture. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant three bean salad as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues, pairing perfectly with grilled meats like Moist And Crispy Onion Chicken. It also complements hearty mains such as Poor Man'S Steak In A Skillet. For a vegetarian option, it can be enjoyed alongside a grain dish or as part of a vegan meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. If you prefer to serve it warm, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overcook the beans to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Three Bean Salad contains roughly 864 calories, with 34g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (196% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (130% of the Daily Value), and iron (103% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 952mg per serving (41% 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 fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh beans! Just blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before adding to the salad. This will help to maintain their vibrant color and crunch. Make sure to cool them down in ice water to stop the cooking process.
How long should I let the salad sit before serving?
For the best flavor, let the salad sit overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the dressing to soak into the beans and vegetables, enhancing the overall taste. If you're short on time, a minimum of 2 hours is recommended for some flavor development.
Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Just prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The longer it sits, the better the flavors will meld together, making it a great choice for gatherings or meal prep.
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).