When cookout season arrives, you want to put as much effort into the sides as the mains. Enter this kidney bean salad. It’s served chilled, so it’ll provide a refreshing contrast between bites of grilled chicken and smoky ribs. Plus, its creamy dressing and savory ingredients deliver rich and comforting flavors.
This recipe can be prepared in just 15 minutes, saving you from too much time in a hot kitchen. It’s also refrigerator-friendly, so you can make it the night before if you want to get ahead on prep before the big barbecue.
Kidney Bean Salad Ingredients
- Kidney beans: We prefer using canned kidney beans because they don’t require cooking, making this salad quick to assemble. Drain and rinse them before adding them in.
- Hard-boiled eggs: We add boiled eggs to create a hearty and satisfying kidney bean salad. The extra protein contributes creaminess and texture to the dish.
- Celery: We include diced celery, as it adds herbaceous and savory flavors to the kidney bean salad.
- Onion: Diced onions add crunchy bites and sharp flavors to the salad.
- Mayonnaise: We rely on mayo to add creamy and rich flavors to this kidney bean salad recipe. If you want to go all out, you can make your own homemade mayonnaise.
- Dill pickle relish: To cut through the fat in this kidney bean salad, pickle relish is mixed in to impart its tangy and sweet flavors.
- Lettuce (optional): Line each serving bowl with a lettuce leaf to add a fun touch to this comforting kidney bean salad.
Directions
Step 1: Combine the ingredients
Grab a large bowl and add the kidney beans, chopped eggs, celery, onion, mayonnaise, pickle relish, pepper and salt. Mix all the ingredients until thoroughly combined, being careful not to mash the beans or eggs.
Step 2: Refrigerate and serve
Refrigerate the salad in an airtight container or covered serving bowl until you’re ready to eat. Serve it scooped into dishes lined with lettuce leaves.
Kidney Bean Salad Variations
- Swap the mayo: Instead of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter-tasting kidney bean salad.
- Add a crunchy component: Toss in crispy bacon or pancetta to add texture to this kidney bean salad.
- Try it with a vinaigrette: If you prefer bolder flavors, consider swapping the creamy mayo for a zesty dressing in this recipe. (Psst: Check out this recipe for a delicious lemon vinaigrette.)
How to Store Kidney Bean Salad
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If the salad becomes dry after chilling for an extended period, stir in additional mayonnaise to refresh it before serving.
Can you make kidney bean salad ahead of time?
If you’re planning to host a cookout and want to serve this as a side, you can easily prepare this kidney bean salad ahead of time. Follow the recipe, store it in the fridge for up to four days and take it out when you’re ready to eat.
Can you freeze kidney bean salad?
We do not recommend freezing this kidney bean recipe because thawing can make it soggy. Additionally, you’ll risk the creamy sauce losing its texture and flavor.
How long does this kidney bean salad recipe last?
If you have leftover kidney bean salad, store it in the fridge for up to four days. Alternatively, if you have access to a vacuum sealer, you can keep it packed in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Kidney Bean Salad Tips
What other types of beans can I use in this salad?
While we recommend using kidney beans for this salad, you can easily substitute them with a different type. Try using canned pinto, black or cannellini beans. The flavor may vary slightly, but the dish’s texture will remain unchanged.
Can I make a vegan version of this kidney bean salad?
This recipe is easily adaptable for a plant-based crowd with a few simple swaps. Replace the mayonnaise with a vegan version, or use a vinaigrette. Swap the boiled eggs for another creamy protein, such as cubes of dairy-free cheese.
What can I serve with kidney bean salad?
This recipe is served chilled and delivers creamy rich bites. We recommend pairing this dish with grilled meats to complement it. That way, you can alternate between smoky bites of ribs and this comforting red kidney bean salad.
