This colorful Mediterranean bean salad is fresh and full of flavor! With crisp veggies, creamy feta, and protein-packed beans, it’s the perfect side dish or light meal.
You can whip it up in no time, which is great if you’re short on time but want something tasty. Serve it cold and watch it disappear in a flash—everyone loves it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans work great here. If you’re looking for a different flavor or texture, you can use chickpeas or black beans instead—both add a lovely twist!
Kalamata Olives: These olives bring a nice briny taste. If you don’t have them, try green olives, but keep in mind they are milder. You could also skip the olives entirely if you’re not a fan.
Cucumber: English cucumbers are less seedy and work best, but regular cucumbers will do just fine. For a twist, try adding some diced avocado for creaminess!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint give this salad freshness. If you don’t have mint, basil or cilantro can add a different but delicious flavor. Either way, fresh herbs are a must!
Pistachios: These add a lovely crunch, but you could swap them for walnuts or omit them altogether if you prefer. Pumpkin seeds are another excellent nut-free option!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Well-Mixed and Tasty?
Mixing salad ingredients thoroughly and letting it chill are key to enhancing the flavor. Here’s my tip to ensure that your salad is well-combined:
- Start with a large bowl to have enough room for tossing without spilling.
- When you add the dressing, drizzle it evenly across the top rather than pouring it all in one spot. This helps coat all ingredients.
- Use a gentle folding motion with a spatula or spoon to mix everything. This avoids mashing the beans.
- Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle. The wait is worth it!
Taste your salad before serving, and don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to match your preferences. Enjoy!
Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup pistachios (optional, for crunch)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Mediterranean bean salad takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. This means you can have a refreshing salad ready in less than an hour, perfect for a quick meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained white beans, halved Kalamata olives, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, and sliced green onions. Give everything a gentle stir to mix.
2. Add Fresh Herbs and Optional Crunch:
Add the chopped parsley and mint to the bowl. If you’re using pistachios, sprinkle them in as well for a delightful crunch!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Make sure that the beans and veggies are well-dressed without breaking them apart.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice if you’d like it tangier.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors come together beautifully!
7. Serve Cold and Enjoy!
After chilling, give the salad another gentle toss. Serve it cold as a refreshing side dish for a picnic, barbecue, or even as a light lunch on its own. Enjoy your fresh and zesty Mediterranean bean salad!
FAQs About Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While cannellini and great northern beans are traditional, you can substitute them with chickpeas or black beans for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure to rinse and drain them like the white beans!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Refrigerator?
Your bean salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best flavor and texture, try to consume it within the first day or two.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep! You can make it up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together.
What Should I Serve It With?
This Mediterranean bean salad makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a picnic spread. It can also be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch. Add some crusty bread for a complete meal!
