7 Quick No-Cook Salads Featuring Canned Beans

We've all had those nights where you have no idea what to make for dinner. You open your pantry, hoping for inspiration—and then you spot the can of beans. That’s your dinner solution! Whether it’s black beans, cannellini, or kidney beans, a can of beans is the perfect base for a fast, no-cook meal. Ready to dive in? Here are 7 salad ideas you can make for dinner, all starring canned beans.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

This vibrant salad comes together in just 25 minutes and is bursting with flavor. Each bite features zesty lime juice, fresh tomatoes, sweet corn, black beans, green onions, cilantro, and creamy avocado—ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Want to make it heartier? Add some romaine lettuce and a sprinkle of cotija cheese to round it out.

A simple, yet satisfying salad that’s packed with bold flavors and fresh ingredients, perfect for a quick meal.

Ultimate Bean Salad

A flavorful three-bean salad served in a bowl, perfect for any occasion.

Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

This recipe features not just one, but four types of beans! It calls for garbanzo, wax, kidney, and black beans, though many commenters have noted that you can mix and match any canned beans you have in your pantry for equally tasty results. The key to this dish is preparing it in advance—at least 8 hours before serving—so the flavors can fully blend together.

Fresh Summer Bean Salad

lutzflcat

Although this recipe is designed with summer in mind, it’s great for any time of the year. Packed with fresh cilantro, black beans, garbanzo beans, cucumbers, and tomatoes, this salad comes together in just 20 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and versatile enough for any night of the week. For an extra touch, serve it with tortilla chips on the side—because who doesn’t love chips and dip?

Classic Four Bean Salad

Don

Community member Donna T calls this recipe “the ultimate bean salad.” What more do we need to say? The recipe combines lima, kidney, and pinto beans with a crunchy mix of celery, onion, and bell pepper. A jar of mild pimentos adds just the right touch of heat and color. For a complete meal, serve it on a bed of fresh leafy greens.

Greek Chickpea Salad

chibi chef

One bite of this Greek Chickpea Salad and you'll be hooked—it's destined to become a weekly staple. Full of feta cheese, black olives, red onions, cherry tomatoes, garlic salt, and of course chickpeas, this salad is as hearty as it is mouthwatering.

Three Bean Salad with Celery

Baking Nana

This simple, yet flavorful bean salad will have your family asking for seconds. Reviewer Mike G says, "I didn't change a thing and it was great!" Traditionally a summer picnic favorite, you can make this a quick dinner by serving it over rice (okay, it's technically not no-cook, but we’re bending the rules with this one).

Spicy Mexican Bean Salad

With nearly 2,000 reviews and an almost perfect rating, it's clear that people absolutely love this recipe. And it’s easy to see why! This straightforward bean salad delivers a punch with chili powder and hot sauce, and its versatility is unmatched. Enjoy it on its own, or use it as the perfect taco filling—just don’t forget to add cheese and sour cream!