Two-Bean Salad with Lime-Cilantro Dressing
A vibrant mix of chickpeas and black beans tossed in a zesty lime-cilantro dressing with fresh vegetables for a refreshing vegetarian meal. This vegetarian-inspired salads (vegetarian) ready in about 20 minutes blends (15 oz) chickpeas, (15 oz) black beans, cherry tomatoes into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp salt
- pinch black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 can (15 oz) rinsed and drained chickpeas, 1 can (15 oz) rinsed and drained black beans, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/2 cup finely diced red onion.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1/4 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper until emulsified.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Two-Bean Salad with Lime-Cilantro Dressing take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (20 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Two-Bean Salad with Lime-Cilantro Dressing?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Two-Bean Salad with Lime-Cilantro Dressing?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Two-Bean Salad with Lime-Cilantro Dressing for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Two-Bean Salad with Lime-Cilantro Dressing vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
The whole family enjoyed this salad. I added some avocado for extra creaminess, but it was great as is.
- ★★★★★
This is my new go-to salad for lunch. The lime-cilantro dressing is addictive and the beans are perfectly seasoned.
- ★★★★★
Loved the simplicity of this salad! The cilantro dressing really elevated the two beans. I'll make it again for my next potluck.
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