White Bean Salad

Looking for a quick and healthy recipe? This White Bean Salad is the perfect solution! Packed with protein-rich white beans, crisp vegetables like cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes, and a flavorful olive oil and lemon dressing, this salad is a refreshing choice for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a light lunch, a healthy side dish, or meal prep, this recipe is easy, versatile, and loaded with nutrients.

Discover how to make this Mediterranean-inspired bean salad, customize it with your favorite fresh herbs or add-ins like feta or avocado, and enjoy a dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or busy weeknights. With its vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, this protein-packed vegan salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs of choice (Herbs de Provence, dried oregano, or dried tarragon)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Salad

• 1 (15-ounce) can of white beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium English cucumber, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or basil) for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
2. Assemble the Salad:
   Add the drained white beans, sliced red onion, chopped cucumber, and halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently to coat the beans and vegetables evenly with the dressing.
3. Chill and Serve:
   Serve the salad immediately for a fresh and crisp texture, or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together. Before serving, garnish with your favorite fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes with minimal prep work.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or even a topping for grilled meats.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Tips

• Use high-quality olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Rinse the white beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium from the canning liquid.
• Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for an hour or more for enhanced flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap white beans for chickpeas, black beans, or kidney beans for a different flavor.
• Add extras like feta cheese, olives, or avocado for more texture and taste.
• Use seasonal vegetables or roasted veggies for a unique twist.
• Replace the lemon juice with balsamic or red wine vinegar for a tangy variation.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What type of white beans should I use?
Canned cannellini beans, great northern beans, or navy beans all work well.

Can I use fresh herbs in the dressing?
Absolutely! Substitute the dried herbs with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped herbs for a vibrant flavor.

Serving

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or steak, or serve it as a light main dish with crusty bread on the side. It’s also a great addition to picnics, potlucks, or meal prep for busy weekdays.

Suggestions

• Sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds for a crunchy topping.
• Serve over a bed of mixed greens for a heartier salad.
• For a Mediterranean twist, add kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes.

This White Bean Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish you’ll want to make again and again!