Lemon Basil Bean Salad (Print Version)

A refreshing mix of three beans with zesty lemon and aromatic basil - ideal for summer gatherings or as a protein-rich side.

# Ingredients:

→ Beans

01 - 1 can (15oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
02 - 1 can (15oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
03 - 1 can (15oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

→ Fresh Ingredients

04 - 1/4 medium red onion, minced
05 - 3 cloves garlic, crushed or minced
06 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered or halved
07 - Zest of one lemon
08 - 1/4 cup fresh basil, minced
09 - Juice of two lemons

→ Seasonings

10 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (optional)
11 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
12 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
13 - 1/4 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
14 - Fresh cracked black pepper to taste

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and drained beans, minced red onion, crushed garlic, cherry tomatoes, lemon zest and minced basil.
02 - Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste.
03 - Toss everything together until fully combined, then cover and allow to sit and marinate for at least one hour in the refrigerator before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Allow the beans to fully marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. For best results, consider marinating overnight before enjoying for maximum flavor.
02 - Rinse the beans and drain them thoroughly to prevent your salad from becoming soggy.
03 - For optimal freshness, consider adding the tomatoes just before serving if preparing the salad in advance.