Zesty Rainbow Vegetable Salad
This refreshing Zesty Rainbow Vegetable Salad is a delightful mix of colorful vegetables and protein-rich beans, perfect for summer barbecues or as a light side dish. The vibrant combination of crisp onions, bell peppers, and celery creates a crunchy texture, while the frozen mixed vegetables offer convenience without compromising taste. A tangy dressing made from cider vinegar and a hint of sweetness from Splenda ties the salad together, creating a delicious balance of flavors. Serve chilled to enjoy the fresh taste of garden-fresh ingredients in every bite!
15
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
Green Bell Pepper
1/2 cup (chopped)
Celery
1/2 cup (thinly sliced)
Frozen Mixed Vegetables
1 bag (cooked as directed on package and cooled)
Kidney Beans
1 can (drained and rinsed)
Garbanzo Beans
1 can (drained and rinsed)
Cider Vinegar
1/2 cup
Splenda Sugar Substitute
1/4 cup
Cornstarch
1 tablespoon
Instructions
1
Cook the frozen mixed vegetables according to the package instructions, and then drain and allow them to cool completely.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped onion, green bell pepper, sliced celery, drained kidney beans, and drained garbanzo beans.
3
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cider vinegar, Splenda, and cornstarch. Whisk the mixture until well combined, then cook until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4
Taste the dressing and adjust the level of vinegar and Splenda to achieve your desired balance of sweet and sour flavors.
5
Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables and beans, and toss gently to coat all the ingredients well.
6
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
7
Serve the salad cold, garnished with additional chopped vegetables if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Rainbow Vegetable Salad?
It is a refreshing mix of colorful vegetables and protein-rich beans with a tangy dressing, perfect for summer.
What vegetables are included in this recipe?
The salad includes onion, green bell pepper, celery, and a bag of frozen mixed vegetables.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 15 servings.
Is Zesty Rainbow Vegetable Salad vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed, including cornstarch and cider vinegar, are naturally gluten-free.
What types of beans are used?
The recipe calls for one can of kidney beans and one can of garbanzo beans.
What is in the dressing?
The dressing consists of cider vinegar, Splenda sugar substitute, and cornstarch.
How do I prepare the dressing?
Whisk cider vinegar, Splenda, and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens slightly.
Why is cornstarch added to the dressing?
Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent to help the dressing coat the vegetables better.
Do I need to cook the frozen vegetables?
Yes, cook them according to the package instructions and let them cool completely before mixing.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
The salad should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this recipe high in fiber?
Yes, the combination of beans and mixed vegetables provides a high fiber content.
Can I substitute Splenda with regular sugar?
Yes, you can use regular sugar, though it will change the nutritional profile of the dish.
How should the celery be prepared?
The celery should be thinly sliced for the best texture.
How should the onion and pepper be prepared?
Both the onion and the green bell pepper should be chopped.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, you can easily add or garnish the salad with other fresh vegetables of your choice.
Is this a good dish for a barbecue?
Absolutely, its refreshing and crisp nature makes it an ideal side for outdoor gatherings.
What type of vinegar is recommended?
Cider vinegar is recommended for its specific tangy flavor profile.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, but you may want to blanch them first to achieve a similar texture to the cooked frozen vegetables.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I make this salad a day in advance?
Yes, making it ahead of time can actually improve the flavor as the ingredients marinate.
What is the texture of the salad?
The salad features a mix of crunchy fresh vegetables and softer cooked vegetables and beans.
Is there any oil in the dressing?
No, this dressing is oil-free, relying on vinegar and sweetener for flavor.
Can I omit the cornstarch?
You can, but the dressing will be much thinner and will not cling to the vegetables as well.
How do I adjust the sweetness of the salad?
You can taste the dressing while cooking and add more Splenda or vinegar to reach your desired balance.
Should the salad be served warm or cold?
The salad is intended to be served cold.
What is a good garnish for this dish?
Additional chopped fresh vegetables make a great garnish for visual appeal and extra crunch.
Is this a light side dish?
Yes, it is considered a light meal or side dish due to its high vegetable content and lack of heavy fats.
How long does it take to thicken the dressing?
It typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes of stirring frequently over medium heat.
Should the beans be rinsed?
Yes, the recipe suggests draining and rinsing both the kidney beans and the garbanzo beans.