Beans make very good salad for parties, whether you use just one variety or a mixture. Combine with fresh or frozen peas or beans. Try to choose different sizes and color. Cook the beans according to the time in the recipe. Garlic, celery and spices and woody herbs, such as bay and rosemary - can be added to the cooking water. Do not add salt but mix it into a dressing of olive oil and vinegar or lemon juice, with thin slices of red onion and garlic.
Gently toss the drained beans into the dressing while still hot, so they can absorb the flavor. Add the chopped fresh herbs, black pepper and other fresh ingredients when the beans are cold.