This colorful Mediterranean bean salad is packed with yummy flavors! It’s made with black beans, chickpeas, and fresh veggies, making it tasty and healthy.
I love how easy this salad is to whip up! Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a refreshing dish that’s perfect for lunch or a picnic. It’s a winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans are great for this salad. If you need a substitute, chickpeas work well too, adding a different texture and flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, any small tomato like grape tomatoes can be chopped up and will work fine. They add a nice sweetness to the dish.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy, tangy bite. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using crumbled tofu mixed with a little lemon juice and nutritional yeast for a similar taste.
Kalamata Olives: These olives add a briny flavor. If they’re hard to find, you could use green olives instead, but they will have a slightly different taste.
Red Onion: For a milder flavor, consider green onions or shallots as substitutes. They still provide that necessary crunch without overpowering the dish.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Has Great Flavor?
The key to the flavor of this salad lies in the dressing and the chilling time. The salad should sit in the fridge to allow flavors to mix. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Don’t rush the mixing! Toss the beans and veggies gently to avoid crushing them.
- Whisk the dressing ingredients well; this ensures the oil and vinegar blend and coat the salad evenly.
- Always taste and adjust! After mixing, sample the salad. You might want a pinch of extra salt or a dash more vinegar.
Let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving—it really gives the ingredients time to shine and marry together!
Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), 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 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mediterranean bean salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Here, combine the drained and rinsed white beans, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and chopped Kalamata olives. Each ingredient adds its unique taste and texture, so make sure to mix them well!
2. Add Feta and Parsley:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top of your bean and vegetable mixture. The feta adds a creamy tanginess, while the parsley brings freshness.
3. Whisk Up the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together, so make sure it’s nicely blended!
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or a wooden spoon, ensuring that all the beans and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s the time to taste your salad! If you feel it needs a little more flavor, add in extra salt and pepper to suit your preference.
6. Chill It Out:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to really blend together and enhances the overall taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, it’s ready to go! You can serve it cold or at room temperature. This salad makes a great side dish for barbeques, a light lunch, or even a healthy snack. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean bean salad!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While cannellini and Great Northern beans are excellent choices, you can use any type of beans you prefer. Chickpeas or black beans would also add a nice twist to the salad!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese, or you can use a plant-based feta alternative if preferred. It will still be delicious and full of flavor!
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as a light lunch on its own. You can also serve it alongside pita bread or a grain like quinoa for a more hearty meal.
