Mary Schott'S Bean Salad
A colorful, savory bean salad featuring a medley of canned beans, olives, pimentos, and water chestnuts, perfect for potlucks and casual gatherings with a tangy, creamy flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients into a large container, layering each ingredient and sprinkling with oil, vinegar, and pepper.
- Spread garlic carefully over each layer.
- When ingredients are used up, put a tablespoon of mayonnaise in several places on top of the ingredients.
- Gently mix the salad and chill.
- Turn the bowl upside down several times.
- Marinate for several hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or corn for crunch. You can substitute any canned beans you have on hand, such as black beans or pinto beans, for a unique twist. Using fresh garlic instead of jarred can enhance the salad's freshness. Be sure to mix in some olive oil and vinegar to balance the beans' richness, making it a refreshing side dish.
Serving Suggestions
This bean salad pairs beautifully with Southern Baked Ham or can be served alongside grilled meats for a hearty meal. For a light lunch, enjoy it with crusty bread or pita chips. It also makes a great addition to potlucks or gatherings, offering a nutritious option for guests looking for vegan recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bean salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. Avoid reheating, as this salad is best served cold. Enjoy it as a quick lunch or a side for your next barbecue.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Schott'S Bean Salad contains roughly 414 calories, with 9g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 831mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
While canned beans are convenient, you can use fresh beans. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender. This will give your salad a fresher taste and texture. Just make sure to cool them completely before layering with the other ingredients.
How long can I marinate the salad?
Marinating the salad for at least 4 hours is ideal, but you can let it sit overnight for even better flavor. The longer it sits, the more the ingredients will soak up the dressing, enhancing taste. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.
What can I add for extra protein?
To boost the protein content, consider adding diced grilled chicken or tuna. For a vegetarian option, mix in some quinoa or additional legumes like lentils. These additions will make your salad more filling and satisfying while maintaining its delicious flavor.
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).