Beans Salad and Pasta

2023-08-27

By Green Fan

Mediterranean

Salad

Time-Saving Tips and Hacks for Making Beans Salad and Pasta with Modern Kitchen Tools

Quick Bean Cooking: Save Time with the Instant Pot

Tip: Skip the soaking time and use the Instant Pot to cook dried beans quickly. Set it to pressure cook for 30-40 minutes, and you’ll have perfectly tender beans ready to add to your salad in a fraction of the time it would take using the stovetop.

Crispy Toppings in Minutes: Air Fryer for Perfect Salad Garnishes

Tip: Use your air fryer to crisp up nuts, seeds, or breadcrumbs for your beans salad. Just toss them with a bit of oil and seasoning, then air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for a fast and crunchy topping that adds texture to your dish.

Fast Veggie Prep: Let the Food Processor Handle the Chopping

Tip: Save time chopping vegetables for your beans salad by using a food processor. With the slicing or dicing attachment, you can quickly chop cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs to add freshness and flavor in seconds.

Tips and Suggestions on Beans Salad and Pasta

Cook Pasta Al Dente

For the best texture, cook the pasta al dente, so it holds up well in the salad and doesn't become mushy when mixed with beans.

Use Fresh Beans

Opt for freshly cooked beans or high-quality canned beans. Drain and rinse them well to remove excess salt and preserve their flavor.

Combine with Colorful Veggies

Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for extra crunch, color, and nutrition in your salad.

Add a Zesty Dressing

Dress the salad with a zesty vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard for a tangy contrast to the beans and pasta.

Incorporate Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can elevate the flavor profile, making your salad aromatic and fresh.

Consider Cheese

Grate some Parmesan or crumbled feta over the salad for added richness and depth of flavor that complements the beans and pasta.

Classic Beans Salad and Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cooked pasta
  • 2 cups chopped lettuce
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cannellini beans, cooked pasta, chopped lettuce, chopped red and yellow bell peppers, sliced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
  2. In a small jar, add the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt and pepper. Close the jar and shake to combine the dressing.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss lightly.
  4. Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds over the salad.
  5. Serve chilled.

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 15 min

Cook Time 15 min

Total time 30 min

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 292
  • Total Fat: 13g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Protein: 11g

Regional Variations for Beans Salad and Pasta

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