Oftentimes, the classic recipes have earned that reputation for good reason. Today’s recipe is exactly one of those: an easy and simple salad that has been a crowdpleaser for generations. This Old-Fashioned Red Bean Salad is hearty, dependable, and built around flavors that just make sense together. It’s cool, creamy, and lightly tangy, with a satisfying bite that keeps you coming back for another spoonful. Made with pantry staples and just a little chopping, it’s a recipe that proves you don’t need anything fancy to make something truly good.

The base of this salad is red kidney beans, which are hearty, filling, and perfect for soaking up flavor. Chopped celery adds a fresh crunch, while green onions bring just enough bite to keep things interesting. Everything gets tossed together in one big bowl, making this a low-effort dish that comes together in minutes.

What really ties it all together is the creamy dressing. Mayo gives it richness, while a touch of sugar and white vinegar create that classic sweet-and-tangy balance. Coriander adds a subtle warmth you might not expect, and salt and black pepper round everything out. It’s simple, but it works beautifully with the beans and vegetables.

For the best flavor, this salad needs a little time in the fridge. An hour of chilling lets everything meld together and makes each bite even better. Serve it cold as a side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or fried chicken, or enjoy it on its own for an easy lunch. It’s old-fashioned in the best way and always welcome at the table.