Jamie Oliver’s Three Bean Salad is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines three types of beans with fresh herbs, tangy vinaigrette, and crisp vegetables. This salad is not only satisfying but also packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making it a perfect side dish or a light main course. Whether you’re preparing for a summer picnic or looking for a quick, healthy meal, this Three Bean Salad is a versatile and delicious option.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- High in Protein and Fiber: A nutritious option that’s filling and healthy.
- Simple to Make: Requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of beans, fresh herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette creates a delicious, well-balanced dish.
- Great for Meal Prep: Can be made ahead of time, and the flavors improve as it sits.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish, a light main, or even as a topping for greens.
What is Jamie Oliver Three Bean Salad?
Jamie Oliver’s Three Bean Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish made with a mix of three different types of beans, usually kidney beans, chickpeas, and green beans, tossed in a zesty vinaigrette with fresh vegetables and herbs. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a light meal.
Other Jamie Oliver Salad Recipes
Jamie Oliver Three Bean Salad Ingredients
- 1 can (400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 200g green beans, trimmed and blanched
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Three Bean Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to cool. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the red onion, dice the red bell pepper, and cucumber. Add them to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Combine the Beans
- Add the Beans: Add the drained kidney beans, chickpeas, and blanched green beans to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Three Bean Salad
- Grilled Meats: Pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Vegetarian Main: Serve over a bed of greens for a light, protein-packed meal.
- Picnic Favorite: Ideal for outdoor gatherings, as it holds up well and can be made ahead.
- Taco Filler: Use as a filling for tacos or wraps for a quick, healthy meal.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Three Bean Salad
- Use Fresh Green Beans: Freshly blanched green beans add the best texture and flavor.
- Customize the Beans: Feel free to use your favorite beans or whatever you have on hand.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld.
- Adjust the Dressing: Taste the salad and adjust the dressing with more vinegar, mustard, or seasoning as needed.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Three Bean Salad
- Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Include Grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or couscous for a heartier dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
- Sweet Touch: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of sweetness.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Three Bean Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it great for meal prep.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Three Bean Salad Leftovers?
- Best Served Cold or at Room Temperature: This salad is typically enjoyed cold, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer it warm, gently warm it in a pan over low heat.
- Freshen Up: If needed, add a little extra dressing or a squeeze of lemon juice to revive the flavors before serving.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
FAQs
Can I make Jamie Oliver Italian Spring Bean Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver Italian Spring Bean Salad ahead of time. Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld together, but it’s best to add the fresh herbs and Parmesan shavings just before serving to maintain their freshness.
What beans are used in Jamie Oliver Italian Spring Bean Salad?
The salad typically uses green beans, broad beans (fava beans), and sugar snap peas. These beans are blanched to maintain their crisp texture and vibrant color.
How do I keep the beans crisp in the salad?
To keep the beans crisp, blanch them for just 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and helps the beans retain their crunch.
Can I add other vegetables to Jamie Oliver Italian Spring Bean Salad?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like radishes, cucumbers, or even bell peppers to enhance the salad’s flavor and texture. This allows for a more personalized touch to the recipe.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Three Bean Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light meal, or a picnic favorite, this salad is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors and textures it brings to your table!
More Jamie Oliver Recipes
PrintJamie Oliver Italian spring bean salad
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 5
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blanching and Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Three Bean Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish made with a mix of three different types of beans, usually kidney beans, chickpeas, and green beans, tossed in a zesty vinaigrette with fresh vegetables and herbs. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a light meal.
Ingredients
- 200g green beans, trimmed
- 200g broad beans (fava beans), shelled
- 200g sugar snap peas, trimmed
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 handful cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Parmesan shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
-
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to cool. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
-
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the red onion, dice the red bell pepper, and cucumber. Add them to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Combine the Beans
-
- Add the Beans: Add the drained kidney beans, chickpeas, and blanched green beans to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
-
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
-
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
-
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.