Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal prep option? Look no further! This Zonya Foco 3 Bean Salad is bursting with fresh ingredients, a zesty citrus dressing, and a satisfying crunch that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or a healthy side dish, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. This easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights and is a great addition to your healthy meals repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for added heat)
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Combine the beans: In a large bowl, gently combine the rinsed and drained kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans.
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Add the vegetables: Add the diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using) to the bowl. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
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Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
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Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients thoroughly.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for a truly delicious salad. Serve chilled, topped with crumbled cotija cheese (or feta).
Tips for the Best 3 Bean Salad:
- Rinse your beans: Rinsing the canned beans helps remove excess sodium and improves the overall flavor of the salad.
- Don't overmix: Gently toss the salad to avoid crushing the beans.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeño to your preferred level of spiciness. If you prefer a milder salad, omit it entirely.
- Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Add some protein: Grilled chicken or shrimp would make a delicious addition to this salad.
- Get creative with veggies: Corn, avocado, or chopped cucumber would be tasty additions.
- Change the cheese: Try using different cheeses like Monterey Jack or queso fresco.
- Add some crunch: Toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds would add a delightful crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 8-10 grams
This Zonya Foco 3 Bean Salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy lunch options. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, and its versatility allows for endless customization. Enjoy this delicious and healthy recipe!