This Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad is a colorful mix of beans, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s not just healthy, it’s also super tasty and filling!
I love to whip this up in just minutes, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s great to eat on its own or with some crunchy pita chips. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cannellini Beans: These creamy white beans add bulk and protein. If you can’t find them, navy beans or chickpeas work great too!
Cucumber: Fresh cucumbers bring a crunchy texture. Try subbing with bell pepper or zucchini if you want a change.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and vibrant, bell peppers add color. Yellow or orange peppers are good alternatives, or you can skip them for a simpler salad.
Kalamata Olives: They give a briny flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, use green olives or capers instead.
Pistachios: For a nutty crunch, pistachios are fantastic. You can replace them with walnuts or sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint make the salad refreshing. Oregano or basil can be great substitutes if you don’t have those on hand.
What’s the Best Way to Mix and Flavor Your Salad?
Combining your ingredients and dressing correctly is key to a delicious salad. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start by rinsing and draining your beans well to get rid of excess sodium.
- Chop your veggies into uniform sizes for even mixing and easy eating.
- When whisking the dressing, ensure the ingredients are combined thoroughly for even flavor.
- Pour the dressing just before serving. Letting it sit for 10 minutes helps the flavors meld without getting soggy.
This method keeps your salad fresh and full of flavor!
How to Make Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans or white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Mediterranean Bean Salad is quick and easy to make! You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation. Just mix your ingredients, let them sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors combine, and it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, halved Kalamata olives, chopped pistachios, chopped parsley, chopped mint, and sliced green onions. Give everything a gentle stir to mix it up!
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well blended. This dressing will bring all your ingredients together beautifully!
3. Dress Your Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mix and toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated evenly. This is the moment when your salad starts to really come alive!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s the time to taste your salad! Feel free to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice based on your preference. It should be fresh and flavorful!
5. Let It Sit:
Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes. This waiting period helps the flavors blend perfectly, making every bite delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean Bean Salad chilled or at room temperature. For a nice presentation, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint if you like. Enjoy this healthy and hearty salad as a main dish or a side!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Beans for This Salad?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans are great, feel free to use chickpeas, black beans, or any variety of beans you prefer. Just make sure they are rinsed and drained!
How Long Can I Store This Salad?
You can store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh as the veggies will start to soften over time.
Is There a Vegan-Friendly Dressing Option?
Yes! The dressing in this recipe is already vegan. The combination of olive oil, vinegar, and lemon juice provides a deliciously tangy flavor without any animal products.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your salad with other ingredients like feta cheese, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or even different types of nuts. The options are endless!
