Bean Vegetarian Apple Salad Recipe for Fresh Healthy Meals

Looking for a fresh, vibrant, and nutritious salad that combines the heartiness of beans with the crisp sweetness of apples? This Bean Vegetarian Apple Salad is exactly what you need!

Packed with protein-rich beans, crunchy apples, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this salad is as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor that will delight your taste buds.

Perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a side dish, this salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays or meal prep. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and loaded with fiber and vitamins.

Let’s dive into why this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a wonderful fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that work together harmoniously. The beans provide a creamy, filling base that keeps you energized, while the apples add a refreshing crunch and natural sweetness.

The dressing is light yet flavorful, enhancing all the ingredients without overpowering them.

It’s incredibly versatile and can be customized with your favorite beans or nuts. It’s also perfect for those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, and it makes a great dish to bring to potlucks, picnics, or family dinners.

Plus, it stores well, so you can enjoy leftovers the next day!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup cooked kidney beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 2 medium apples (preferably crisp varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp), cored and diced
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped (optional)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small whisk or fork
• Salad serving bowl or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: If using canned beans, rinse them thoroughly under cold water and drain well. If cooking from dry, soak and cook according to package instructions until tender. Set aside to cool.
2. Chop the apples and vegetables: Core and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
3. Mix the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, kidney beans, diced apples, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and walnuts (if using).
4. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
5. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed.
7. Chill and serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Tips & Variations

For an extra crunch, try adding toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds instead of walnuts.

If you prefer a creamier texture, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative to the dressing. For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some chili flakes or add a finely chopped jalapeño.

Feel free to swap the beans with black beans, cannellini beans, or even green peas depending on your preference. You can also add chopped cucumber or shredded carrots for more color and nutrition.

This salad pairs beautifully with the tangy zest of lemon juice instead of apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. And if you want to make it more substantial, toss in some cooked quinoa or farro.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Bean Vegetarian Apple Salad is perfect on its own for a light yet filling meal. Serve it chilled with whole grain crackers or warm pita bread for a delightful contrast.

It also makes a fantastic side dish alongside a hearty soup or grilled vegetables. Pair it with dishes like the Lump Of Coal Recipe or the Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for a complete and satisfying vegetarian meal.

For a picnic or potluck, serve it in individual jars or bowls for easy transport and presentation.

Conclusion

The Bean Vegetarian Apple Salad is a wonderful go-to recipe that combines wholesome ingredients with vibrant flavors and textures. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a healthy snack, or a colorful side dish, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

With its satisfying crunch from the apples and nuts, creamy beans, and zesty dressing, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite beans and veggies to make it truly your own.

For more delicious and creative vegetarian recipes, try our Magic Dough Recipe or the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes (vegan version) for inspiration. Happy cooking!

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