This refreshing Mediterranean bean salad is packed with flavor and color! With tasty beans, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for a light meal or as a side dish.
I love how quick this salad comes together—just chop, mix, and enjoy! Plus, it’s healthy, filling, and looks great on a plate. You’ll be the star of any picnic with this dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cannellini Beans: These creamy beans are the base of the salad. If you’re looking for alternatives, great northern beans or navy beans work well too. For a twist, try black beans for added color!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and brightness. If you can’t find them, use diced regular tomatoes or even a mix of heirloom tomatoes. I often toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a punchy flavor.
Cucumber: Offers crunch and freshness. If you prefer, use pickling cucumbers or even diced bell peppers for a different texture.
Feta Cheese: This tangy cheese is classic here. If you’re dairy-free or vegan, try using crumbled tofu or a store-bought vegan feta alternative.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Dressing?
The dressing is critical for tying everything together. Whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Make sure to taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking and don’t rush this step.
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich flavor.
- Let the dressing sit for a few minutes to let the garlic infuse.
Your salad will taste even better after chilling, as the flavors meld together. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before serving!
Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans or white kidney 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
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
For The Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean bean salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a little extra time in the fridge to chill. Just let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to let all those lovely flavors blend together. Perfect for lunch or a refreshing side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the rinsed cannellini beans, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped Kalamata olives. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything nicely.
2. Add Feta and Herbs:
Sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and optional basil. These ingredients add a lovely burst of flavor and color to the salad.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic until it’s well mixed. This will create a lovely dressing. Season it with salt and black pepper to taste, making sure it’s just how you like it!
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the big bowl. Gently toss everything together with your hands or a large spoon until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper if necessary. Don’t skip this step—adjusting the flavors makes a big difference!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld beautifully together. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature as a healthy and refreshing meal or side dish.
Enjoy this vibrant and delicious Mediterranean bean salad—it’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ about Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute them with great northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This Mediterranean bean salad can last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors may deepen over time, making it even more delicious!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead! You can prepare the salad and dressing a day before serving. Just keep them separate until ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced avocado for creaminess, spinach or arugula for added greens, or even some spice with diced jalapeños. Adjust it to your taste!
