This colorful Mediterranean Bean Salad is full of tasty beans, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing. It’s super easy to make and perfect for lunch or a side dish at dinner!
Plus, you can mix and match your favorite ingredients! I usually add a dash of feta cheese for extra flavor and watch it disappear from the bowl! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cannellini Beans: These creamy white beans are essential for this salad. If you can’t find them, feel free to use garbanzo (chickpeas) or black beans instead. Just remember to rinse them well to remove any canned taste!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a burst of sweetness. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes can work, but remove some of the seeds to prevent excess moisture.
Cucumber: For crunch, any cucumber works. If you want a twist, try using Persian or English cucumbers for a sweeter flavor and fewer seeds. You can also swap for diced zucchini if that’s what you have on hand.
Kalamata Olives: These olives bring in a rich flavor. If you prefer milder olives, green olives can be a good substitute. Just chop them up when you add them to the salad!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy creaminess. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and salt, or skip the cheese altogether and add more veggies.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Fresh?
The key to a fresh Mediterranean Bean Salad lies in how you prepare and store it! Here are some tips to keep your salad delicious:
- Make sure to drain and rinse your canned beans thoroughly to remove any sour or salty taste from the can.
- Add the dressing just before serving. This will keep the vegetables crisp without getting soggy.
- If you want to prep in advance, chop vegetables and keep them separate. Combine everything and Dress when you’re ready to eat.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but expect some softening of the veggies over time.
Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white cannellini 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
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for chopping and mixing. If you let it chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes, that helps the flavors blend together beautifully. Overall, it’s a quick and easy dish to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by adding the rinsed cannellini beans. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped Kalamata olives. Make sure everything is mixed together well!
2. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Now, sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese and add the chopped fresh parsley. These ingredients bring an awesome flavor and color to your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until it’s nicely blended and creamy. This is the tastiest part!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until all the veggies and beans are evenly coated in that delicious dressing.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Take a little taste! If you feel it needs more flavor, sprinkle in an extra dash of salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your taste.
6. Let It Chill:
For the best flavor, let your salad sit for at least 10 minutes. If you have the time, pop it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to let those flavors meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad is ready to be served! Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature as a bright and healthy side dish or light main meal. Bon appétit!
This salad is fresh, tangy, and loaded with nutritious ingredients—perfect for a quick meal or a refreshing side!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans are delicious in this recipe, you can substitute them with chickpeas, black beans, or even kidney beans. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your Mediterranean Bean Salad can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just keep in mind that the vegetables may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and consider adding some diced avocado for creaminess or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor!
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or can be served as a base for a grain bowl. It also works great alongside pita bread, tzatziki, or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean meal!
