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Three-Bean Salad

This vibrant three-bean salad is a refreshing twist on a plant-based classic, combining earthy black beans and black-eyed peas with bright green edamame. The dish is brought to life with a warm, spiced dressing made by tempering ground cumin in olive oil, providing a fragrant depth that complements the crisp textures of celery and red onion. Finished with plenty of fresh coriander and a zingy hit of lime juice, it offers a wonderful balance of savoury and citrus flavours.

As a versatile vegan dish, this salad is an excellent choice for batch-cooking as the flavours continue to meld and improve over time. High in protein and naturally gluten-free, it works equally well as a light main course or a substantial side dish for a summer barbecue. Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside some crusty bread for a nutritious, homemade meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Three-Bean Salad

  • 350ml frozen shelled edamame (230g)

  • 60ml olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 (425g) can black beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 (425g) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed

  • 50g chopped red onion

  • 200g thinly sliced celery

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh coriander

  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 1/4 teaspoons black pepper

How to make Three-Bean Salad

Cook edamame in a 1 1/2 - to 2-quart saucepan of boiling salted water, uncovered, 4 minutes. Drain in a colander, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Heat oil in a small heavy skillet over moderately low heat until hot but not smoking, then cook cumin, stirring, until fragrant and a shade darker, about 30 seconds. Pour into a large heatproof bowl.

Add edamame and remaining ingredients to cumin oil and toss to coat. Let stand 10 minutes for flavours to blend.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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