Creamy Kidney Bean Salad Recipe

Creamy kidney bean salad should be on your recipe radar, because it's such a refreshing and unique dish. Whether you need something to make you the hit of the party at a family BBQ or simply want something different to serve to your family, this dish is for you. While chicken and potato salad are incredibly popular, especially during those hot summer months, kidney beans salad is the perfect option for vegetarians looking for something a little bit more hearty. According to Health Digest, kidney beans have many health benefits that will make you feel good about eating them. Not only are they a great source of protein, but they also have several other health benefits like controlling your blood sugar and managing your weight.

Kristen Carli is the innovator behind this yummy recipe that will surely satisfy your appetite. She shares that her favorite part of the dish is the beans. "I love beans — any kind! This salad has my name all over it," Carli raves. "My grandpa used to make one very similar to this." Keep scrolling for more details on how to make this yummy side dish that's sure to be your new fav.

This recipe requires a few ingredients that you will need to add to your grocery list. For the base of the dish, you will need mayo and white wine vinegar. In terms of spices, you need salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This recipe is also full of veggies and protein, including kidney beans, shredded carrots, celery, and, last but not least, red onion. Hopefully, you at least have a few of the spices at home, saving you a little on groceries. 

Once you gather everything together, you can begin to whip up this refreshing salad that is sure to please a crowd. 

First, you want to take out a small bowl and a spoon to mix the first set of ingredients. Add in the mayo and white wine vinegar first, followed by salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything to combine, so all the ingredients are well-mixed and evenly distributed. 

It's important to mix your base separately before adding in the veggies, Carli shares. "I want to mix the dressing together so that it is fully incorporated before adding to the veggies," she says. Once your dressing is good to go, it's time to move to the next step and get those veggies together. 

Now, you need to take out a large mixing bowl for the next step since there are more ingredients to add. Toss in the beans, carrots, celery, and onion. The beans give you the great source protein and a softer texture. As for the celery and carrots? These give the salad a great crunch, which is incredibly refreshing. The onions provide another crunch and a more robust flavor that completes the salad perfectly. Trust us — it's one of the most flavorful and filling side salads you'll ever eat. 

Next, add the dressing on top and give the bowl a few good tosses to combine everything together. Alternatively, you can mix with a spoon. 

Once the salad is mixed and dressed, you can finally sit down and enjoy it. You may serve the salad on a plate or in individual bowls; it totally just depends on your personal preference. "I would serve this on the side of a sandwich for a perfect lunch," Carli says. The salad would also be a great thing to serve as a side at a barbecue or family dinner. 

If you happen to have any leftovers at all, they will "last in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days," Carli shares. Now, it's time to dig in!