Marinated Green Bean Salad
A vibrant marinated green bean salad with sweet, tangy flavors and crunchy vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing side dish. Suitable for picnics and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat sugar, oil, and vinegar until the sugar is dissolved, stirring frequently.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- Pour the drained green beans, peas, chopped pimento, chopped celery, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper into the sugar mixture; mix well.
- Refrigerate the salad overnight.
- Drain before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant salad, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill. If you prefer a different flavor profile, swap the vinegar for lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. You can also use fresh green beans instead of canned for a crunchier texture. For a protein boost, toss in some chickpeas. This marinated green bean salad pairs beautifully with Lizzy's Grandma's Potato Salad as a side dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this marinated green bean salad as a refreshing side at barbecues or picnics. It also complements grilled meats beautifully. Consider pairing it with a light pasta dish or a refreshing drink like the Frozen Peach Beach Cooler for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with additional chopped herbs or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. For best results, consume it cold; there's no need to reheat. If you prefer, you can serve it at room temperature for a different experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Green Bean Salad contains roughly 397 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used for a crunchier texture. Simply blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain and cool before mixing them into the salad.
How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
The marinated green bean salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it's best enjoyed within the first 1-2 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it doesn't contain any animal products. To enhance the flavor, consider adding more vegetables or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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).