This Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad is a colorful mix of tasty beans, fresh veggies, and sunny olive oil. It’s packed with protein and is super quick to make!
Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, this salad brightens up any meal. I love to whip it up in minutes—who doesn’t enjoy a little sunshine in a bowl? 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cannellini Beans: These creamy white beans are key to the salad’s texture. You can substitute with chickpeas or black beans if you prefer a different flavor or texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love the sweetness of halved cherry tomatoes! If they’re not in season, try grape tomatoes or even regular diced tomatoes.
Kalamata Olives: These add a briny taste. If you don’t have them, green olives or black olives can work well too. Just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a nice tangy kick. If you’re dairy-free, try crumbled tofu or a dairy-free feta alternative.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh herbs make a huge difference. If parsley isn’t available, fresh basil or cilantro can also brighten the dish.
How Do I Make Sure the Salad Flavors Meld?
Letting the salad rest is crucial for flavor development. The ingredients need time to soak up the dressing. Here’s how I do it:
- Mix all the salad ingredients in a bowl.
- Whisk the dressing in a separate bowl and then pour it over the salad.
- Toss gently but completely to coat everything.
- Let it sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or in the fridge to allow the flavors to combine.
In my experience, the salad tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to blend. Enjoy making this simple, vibrant dish!
Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to make and doesn’t require any cooking! Just let it sit for about 15 minutes afterward to let the flavors blend.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans along with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, chopped Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. It’s a vibrant mix of colors and flavors!
2. Add Fresh Herbs
Now, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of your bean and veggie mixture. Fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of freshness to the salad.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until everything is combined. This dressing brings all the flavors together!
4. Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. It might look like a lot, but trust me, it’s delicious! Stir everything gently but thoroughly, making sure all the beans, veggies, and cheese are coated evenly. No one wants a dry salad!
5. Taste and Adjust
Give your salad a taste! This is your chance to adjust the seasoning. If you think it needs more salt or pepper, sprinkle a little in and mix again.
6. Let It Rest
Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or pop it in the fridge. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your fresh Mediterranean Bean Salad as a light meal or as a side dish for grilled meats or fish. This salad is not only tasty but also healthy and colorful!
Happy cooking! 🌿
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Beans in This Salad?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute them with chickpeas, black beans, or even kidney beans for a different twist. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Mediterranean Bean Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It may get even tastier as the flavors meld! Just give it a good stir before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is great to make ahead. You can prepare it a few hours or even a day in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator and let it sit to enhance the flavors before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu works well as a substitute! Alternatively, you can use goat cheese, grated parmesan, or leave it out entirely for a lighter version.
