This colorful Mediterranean Bean Salad is a breeze to whip up! It’s packed with yummy veggies, beans, and a bright dressing that adds a zing.
Honestly, it’s like a party in a bowl! I love bringing this to gatherings; it’s healthy, tasty, and always vanishes quickly. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that requires no cooking?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cannellini Beans: These white beans add creaminess and protein. If you can’t find them, navy beans or great northern beans work well as substitutes.
Cherry Tomatoes: They offer sweetness and a burst of flavor. Grape tomatoes can also be used if that’s what you have on hand.
Cucumber: Crunchy and refreshing, cucumber is key here. If you’re looking for something with a bit more flavor, try a diced bell pepper or even zucchini.
Kalamata Olives: These add a briny flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use green olives instead.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives the salad a tangy kick. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or omit cheese entirely.
How Do You Make the Dressing that Packs a Punch?
The dressing is super easy to whip up and makes all the difference! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with quality extra virgin olive oil for richness.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks that fresh zest.
- Don’t skip the minced garlic! It adds aromatic depth.
- Mix in dried oregano, as it’s a staple in Mediterranean cuisine that enhances flavor.
- Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to balance everything out.
Whisk these ingredients together in a small bowl until emulsified, then pour over your salad and toss! It’s all about letting those flavors come together. Enjoy this as a cool side dish or a light stand-alone meal!
Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish should take you about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing all the ingredients, you’ll want to let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to really let the flavors blend together, making the total time around 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Salad:
Grab a large mixing bowl and add the drained cannellini beans, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, chopped Kalamata olives, and chopped fresh parsley. Gently stir everything together until well combined.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure it’s mixed thoroughly to create a harmonious dressing.
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over your bean and vegetable mixture. Toss everything very gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
4. Add Feta Cheese:
Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese to keep those lovely little chunks intact while ensuring it’s distributed throughout the salad.
5. Chill and Meld Flavors:
Cover your salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, enhancing the overall taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
This salad can be served chilled straight from the fridge or at room temperature. It’s a refreshing addition to any meal or a light meal on its own!
This Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad is as colorful as it is delicious, packed with refreshing flavors and textures. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Can I Use Different Beans in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to use any canned beans you like, such as chickpeas or black beans. Just ensure they’re drained and rinsed for the best flavor!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad actually tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad may get a bit saucy, but you can toss it again before serving. Just make sure to check if it needs any extra seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can try a vegan feta cheese. You can also omit the cheese entirely or replace it with avocado for creaminess!
