Quick Warm Bean and Celery Salad with Smoked Paprika

ChloeG 28 August 2024

We’re excited to have you back on the blog, where we’re all about showcasing delicious, plant-based recipes that are as nourishing as they are flavorful. Today, we’re introducing a recipe that’s all about simplicity and taste—our Warm Bean and Celery Salad with Smoked Paprika.

This dish is perfect for those days when you want something hearty but not too heavy. It combines the comforting warmth of beans with the crispness of celery, all brought together by the deep, smoky flavor of paprika. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, relying on simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Whether you’re serving it as a main course with a side of crusty bread or as a tasty side dish to complement your meal, this salad is sure to be a hit. Plus, with the protein-packed beans and a hit of fresh parsley, it’s a great way to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying plant-based dish.

5 Health Benefits To Beans.

1. Rich in Protein:

Butter beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a valuable addition to vegan and vegetarian diets. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall cell health.

2. High in Fiber:

Butter beans are packed with dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels and can lower cholesterol, contributing to heart health.

3. Supports Heart Health:

Butter beans are rich in magnesium and potassium, two minerals that are crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. The fiber content also helps reduce cholesterol levels, further supporting cardiovascular health.

4. Good Source of Iron:

Butter beans provide a significant amount of iron, which is essential for the production of hemoglobin and the prevention of anemia. This makes them especially important for those following a plant-based diet, where iron intake can sometimes be a concern.

5. Antioxidant Properties:

These beans contain antioxidants like vitamin C and manganese, which help protect the body from oxidative stress. Antioxidants play a role in reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Warm Bean and Celery Salad with Smoked Paprika and Kalamata Olives

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This Warm Bean and Celery Salad with Smoked Paprika and Kalamata Olives is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for a light meal or a flavorful side. The combination of hearty butter beans, crisp celery, and briny Kalamata olives creates a satisfying texture, while the smoked paprika adds a deep, rich flavor. The red wine vinegar brightens the dish with a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the olive oil and the earthiness of the beans. Finished with fresh parsley and served with crusty bread, this salad is both simple to prepare and bursting with bold, savory flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy, flavorful lunch!

Author: ChloeG
Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 10
Total Time: 20

Instructions

Start the Base:
In a medium skillet, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, tomato paste, garlic, and shallot. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant and bubbling gently, about 2 minutes.
Add the Spices:
Stir in the smoked paprika and cook for another 30 seconds to release the flavors.
Cook the Vegetables and Beans:
Add the sliced celery, drained beans, red wine vinegar, Kalamata olives, and the remaining 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Cook, stirring gently, until just warmed through, about 1 minute.
Finish and Serve:
Stir in the fresh parsley and season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with crusty bread on the side.

Notes

Balanced Flavor Profile:
- The dish combines hearty butter beans and crisp celery with just a touch of briny Kalamata olives (2 teaspoons) to add a subtle, savory note without overpowering the other ingredients.
- The smoked paprika adds depth and warmth, while the red wine vinegar offers a bright, tangy contrast.
Light and Satisfying:
- This salad is light enough for a quick lunch or side dish, but still satisfying due to the protein and fiber content from the beans.
- It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, making it a complete meal option.
Quick and Easy:
- Ready in just minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a flavorful dish with minimal prep.
- The ingredients are simple, and most are pantry staples, making it an accessible option for most home cooks.
Mediterranean Inspiration:
- The addition of olives and red wine vinegar gives this dish a Mediterranean flair, making it a refreshing and healthful option for those who enjoy bold, yet balanced flavors.
Customizable:
- The recipe can easily be adjusted to your taste. You can add more olives if you prefer a stronger briny flavor, or increase the amount of smoked paprika for a richer, smoky profile.