Mediterranean White Bean Salad
Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Collection
I always find myself craving something light yet satisfying, and this Mediterranean White Bean Salad has become my go-to. The combination of creamy white beans, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty dressing never fails to delight my taste buds. Whether served on its own or as a side dish, it’s a meal that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to my table. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for lunch or a refreshing dinner on warm days.
When I first made this Mediterranean White Bean Salad, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could create such depth of flavor. The key is to let the dressing marinate for at least 10 minutes before serving; it allows the beans to absorb all those tangy and fresh notes. I experimented with several herbs, but I found that fresh parsley and a hint of dill truly elevate the dish.
This salad is not just colorful; it's a powerhouse of nutrition. The white beans are rich in protein and fiber, which help keep me full. I've also loved adding some crunchy cucumber and ripe tomatoes for freshness, turning this salad into a vibrant meal any time of the year.
Why You'll Love This Salad
- Bright, fresh flavors inspired by Mediterranean cuisine
- Creamy texture of white beans that balance the crunch of fresh vegetables
- Perfectly customizable with your favorite herbs and veggies
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Mix the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and dill.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Combine and Serve
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy Your Salad!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider including feta cheese or olives in your salad. It's also a great make-ahead dish
- the flavors deepen beautifully when stored in the fridge overnight.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it's actually better after marinating for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can customize this salad with bell peppers, avocado, or even roasted veggies for added flavor.
→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to keep the ingredients fresh.
→ How can I add more protein to this salad?
You can toss in some grilled chicken or serve it alongside shrimp for an extra protein boost.
Mediterranean White Bean Salad
I always find myself craving something light yet satisfying, and this Mediterranean White Bean Salad has become my go-to. The combination of creamy white beans, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty dressing never fails to delight my taste buds. Whether served on its own or as a side dish, it’s a meal that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to my table. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for lunch or a refreshing dinner on warm days.
Created by: Nola Patterson
Recipe Type: Balanced Healthy Meals Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and dill.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes before serving.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider including feta cheese or olives in your salad. It's also a great make-ahead dish
- the flavors deepen beautifully when stored in the fridge overnight.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 10g