Supreme Pizza Bean Salad Recipe

This hearty and flavorful bean salad features a perfect combination of savory ingredients, topped with a zesty sundried tomato dressing. It's ideal for a quick lunch or a delicious side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

This recipe yields 8 servings. Adjustments for scaling are made for ingredient amounts, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Salad Ingredients

• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 ounces turkey pepperoni, chopped
• 4 ounces salami, chopped
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper
• 1/2 cup sliced Castelvetrano olives (or any variety)
• 12 ounces marinated mozzarella pearls
• 1/3 cup diced red onion
• Fresh basil, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 ounces oil-packed sundried tomatoes, chopped (plus 2 tablespoons oil from the jar)
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus more as needed)

Directions

Follow these steps to prepare a fresh and vibrant bean salad with an irresistible sundried tomato dressing.

1. In a large bowl, combine the cannellini beans, garbanzo beans, turkey pepperoni, salami, grape tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, olives, and red onion.
2. Drain half of the marinade from the mozzarella pearls and add the remaining marinated cheese to the bowl with the other ingredients. Add the chopped fresh basil and toss until everything is well combined.
3. To make the dressing, place the sundried tomatoes (with oil), minced garlic, salt, pepper, crushed red pepper, and oregano into a food processor.
4. Puree the mixture while gradually drizzling in the olive oil until everything is smooth and well incorporated. Add more olive oil if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
5. Pour the prepared dressing over the bean salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Finally, add a little more fresh basil, toss again, and serve immediately. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the salad until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	441
Total Fat	16g	21%
Saturated Fat	3g	17%
Cholesterol	24mg	8%
Sodium	831mg	36%
Total Carbohydrate	59g	22%
Dietary Fiber	14g	52%
Total Sugars	20g
Protein	22g	45%
Vitamin C	55mg	61%
Calcium	150mg	12%
Iron	9mg	48%
Potassium	2346mg	50%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Supreme Pizza Bean Salad is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of a supreme pizza with the healthful benefits of beans and fresh vegetables. This innovative salad recipe offers all the classic pizza toppings such as pepperoni, salami, mozzarella, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes but in a nutritious, vibrant bean salad form. It's a perfect dish for a crowd, great for meal prep, and equally loved at parties and casual gatherings.

History and Origins

While the origin of Supreme Pizza Bean Salad is difficult to pinpoint, it is believed to be a modern twist on traditional Italian pizza, which itself has roots dating back to ancient Naples. The supreme pizza, which features a variety of toppings such as meats, vegetables, and cheese, is an American invention that gained popularity in the 1950s. The bean salad version likely emerged as part of the growing trend of healthy, vegetarian alternatives to classic comfort food. Combining the flavors of a pizza with the heartiness of beans and vegetables offered a lighter, yet satisfying option, perfect for the modern health-conscious eater.

Regional Variations and Features

Supreme Pizza Bean Salad is not confined to one particular region. It combines ingredients commonly found in Italian cuisine, such as mozzarella, salami, and olives, with the American love for pizza. The beauty of this salad is its versatility: while the classic recipe calls for cannellini and garbanzo beans, other types of beans can be substituted depending on availability or personal preference. Similarly, ingredients like turkey pepperoni or Castelvetrano olives can be swapped for regional varieties, adding a unique twist to the dish.

Distinctions from Similar Dishes

Compared to other bean salads, what sets Supreme Pizza Bean Salad apart is its use of classic pizza toppings as the main components. Most traditional bean salads focus on raw vegetables, beans, and a simple vinaigrette dressing. This salad, on the other hand, incorporates salami, pepperoni, and marinated mozzarella, making it a heartier and more indulgent dish. Furthermore, the addition of a sun-dried tomato vinaigrette dressing brings an extra layer of depth, offering a tangy, savory contrast to the mild beans and creamy cheese.

Where Its Typically Served

Supreme Pizza Bean Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings. It is particularly popular at casual gatherings, potlucks, and summer barbecues. Its hearty ingredients make it an excellent choice for a main dish at lunchtime or dinner, while its light and fresh nature also makes it an ideal side dish to complement grilled meats or pizza. It can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it an excellent make-ahead option for meal prep. This salad is also great for parties, as its easy to share and can be served in large quantities.

Interesting Facts

• Pizza Without the Crust: The Supreme Pizza Bean Salad offers a crustless version of your favorite pizza. For those who love pizza but want to cut down on carbohydrates, this dish provides the best of both worlds all the flavor, without the dough!
• Rich in Protein and Fiber: With beans as the base, this salad is a protein-packed dish that also provides plenty of dietary fiber. The combination of chickpeas and cannellini beans helps to make this dish both filling and nutritious.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The inclusion of sun-dried tomatoes in the dressing gives this salad a rich, concentrated flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes are not just a tasty addition but are also known for their high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Great for Meal Prep: This salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for several days, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. Its a great option for busy weeks when you want a quick and healthy meal ready to go.

In conclusion, the Supreme Pizza Bean Salad is a delicious fusion of familiar flavors with a modern, healthy twist. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, its a crowd-pleaser that combines the best elements of Italian pizza and bean salad. Its versatility and health benefits make it an ideal choice for a wide variety of occasions, from casual dinners to larger gatherings.

FAQ about Supreme Pizza Bean Salad Recipe