This Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad is a colorful mix of beans, veggies, and fresh herbs. It’s healthy, tasty, and perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner!
Who knew beans could be so lively? I love bringing this salad to parties—it’s a real crowd-pleaser and always makes me feel like I’m on a sunny holiday!
Preparing this salad is a breeze. Just toss everything in a bowl, and you’re ready to enjoy! It’s even better the next day, so feel free to make extra!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: I love using cannellini or navy beans for their creamy texture. If you prefer something different, you can swap them for chickpeas or black beans, which will give a unique twist!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, try using diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
Kalamata Olives: These olives add a salty bite. If they’re hard to find or you’re not a fan, green olives can work well too. Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on how salty you like it!
Feta Cheese: Feta is great for a tangy finish. If you need a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add flavor without the dairy.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint add freshness. If you’re out of mint, just stick with parsley or add basil instead for a different herbal note.
How Do I Gently Toss a Salad Without Breaking the Beans?
Mixing salad ingredients can be tricky, especially with delicate items like beans. Here’s how to do it without making a mushy mess:
- Use a large bowl to give yourself space to mix.
- Start with the lighter ingredients like vegetables on the bottom.
- Using a large spoon or spatula, carefully lift the mixture from the bottom and fold it over itself rather than stirring vigorously.
- Work in sections, adding the dressing gradually while avoiding excessive squishing of the beans.
Gently tossing also helps keep the beans intact, ensuring every bite is satisfying!
Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, finely diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved or chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 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 an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge for the best flavor. In no time, you’ll have a refreshing, healthy dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, mix together the drained and rinsed white beans, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and Kalamata olives. These ingredients create a fresh and colorful base for your salad.
2. Add the Feta and Herbs:
Next, sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese along with the chopped fresh parsley and mint if you’re using it. These will add a lovely flavor boost and complement the beans beautifully.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well blended. This dressing will tie all the flavors together!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to break up the beans too much as you mix!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad! If you feel it needs a little more salt, pepper, or vinegar, go ahead and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
6. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together. Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or a light main meal.
This Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad is fresh, tangy, and perfect for making ahead! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While cannellini and navy beans are great choices, feel free to experiment with chickpeas, black beans, or even kidney beans for a fun twist on this salad.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
This salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Just give it a gentle toss before serving, as some ingredients may settle. Enjoy the flavors that develop over time!
Can I Make the Salad Without Feta Cheese?
Yes, you can! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply omit the feta or replace it with a vegan feta alternative. Alternatively, you can use avocado for creaminess without the cheese.
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This bean salad is versatile! Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch. It also pairs beautifully with pita bread or over a bed of greens for extra nutrition!
