Sides

Red kidney bean salad

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Red kidney bean salad

Italian red kidney bean salad is a protein-rich salad that combines cooked red kidney beans with red onions, parsley and red wine vinegar. This key combination of ingredients is just magical and is so distinctive that it always makes an impression. To make it a little bit lighter and easier to digest, in this version of the salad I have simply changed the proportion of beans and greens.

The benefits of red kidney beans

Rich in plant-based protein and fiber, red kidney beans support digestion and help maintain steady energy levels. These beans are also loaded with essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate, which promote healthy blood and immune function. Their low glycemic index makes them ideal for sustained energy, while their antioxidants help combat inflammation.

Did you know?

Red kidney beans are thought to have originated in Peru and were cultivated as early as 8,000 years ago by indigenous tribes in the Americas. They were a vital protein source and spread through migration and trade. Their name comes from their distinctive kidney shape and deep red color, which resembles a human kidney.

Red kidney bean salad with cutlet
Red kidney bean salad with cutlet

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Red kidney bean salad

Red kidney bean salad

corinthian
Red kidney beans are the stars of this refreshing and satisfying salad. The real twist in this dish is the red wine vinegar, which complements the red onion (or shallot) perfectly in a simple Italian-style vinaigrette.
prep time
10 min
servings
2
total time
10 minutes

Equipment

  • Knife

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup canned red kidney beans

  • 2 celery stalks

  • 1/2 English cucumber

  • 1 cup lettuce

  • 12 cherry tomatoes

  • 1 shallot (or small red onion)

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 teaspoons red-wine vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons thinly minced fresh parsley

  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

1

Prep the veggies

Rinse the celery stalks, remove the leaves, and slice them thinly. Peel the cucumber, halve it lengthwise, and thinly slice it. Rinse well the cherry tomatoes and quarter them. Rinse the lettuce and slice it thinly. Drain the water from the beans. Transfer everything to a salad bowl.
2

Season and toss

Add the minced parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Season with salt to your taste. Toss the salad and serve.

Notes

The best onion to use in this recipe is Tropea red onion, which has a sweeter flavor than regular red onions.
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