This colorful Mediterranean Bean Salad is a breeze to make! Packed with vibrant veggies and tasty beans, it brings bright flavors to your table in no time.
Who says salads have to be boring? This one is fresh, crunchy, and oh-so-good! I love how it’s perfect for picnics or as a quick side dish during dinner!
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip this up quick. I enjoy making a big batch so I can munch on it all week. It tastes even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cannellini Beans: These white beans are creamy and have a mild flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use great northern beans or navy beans instead. They’ll work just as well!
Cucumber: I like using English cucumbers for their crispness and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. Just slice them thinly to keep the crunch!
Kalamata Olives: These olives add briny flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, try using green olives or black olives instead. They each bring a unique flair!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint really elevate this salad! If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can work, but use them sparingly—about a teaspoon each will do.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its rich flavor. Avocado oil is a great alternative if you want a neutral taste. You can even blend it with a bit of lemon-infused oil for extra zest!
How Can I Make Sure My Salad is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
Getting the salad just right is all about the mixing and marinating. After all the chopping, the key is to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by mixing your beans and veggies in a large bowl.
- Whisk your dressing in a separate bowl until it’s nice and combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and use a spatula to gently fold it all together. This prevents crushing the beans!
- Let the salad sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to combine beautifully. This resting time is crucial!
This resting period helps the salad absorb all the yummy flavors, so don’t skip it!
Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 3 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes just about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes of resting time for the flavors to meld beautifully. In less than half an hour, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine the drained and rinsed cannellini beans, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, halved Kalamata olives, and drained capers. Give it a gentle stir to mix them together nicely.
2. Add Fresh Herbs and Onions:
Now, add the chopped parsley, chopped mint leaves, and thinly sliced green onions to the bowl with the bean and veggie mixture. These fresh herbs will really enhance the salad’s flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This will be the tasty dressing that brings everything together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your salad ingredients and gently toss everything together using a spatula. You want to coat everything nicely without smashing the beans!
5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If it needs a bit more zip, feel free to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice until it’s just right for you!
6. Let It Rest:
For the best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 15-20 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors blend beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, garnish the salad with a few fresh mint leaves if you like. This Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad is delicious on its own, as a side dish, or even as a light meal. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans are delicious, you can easily substitute them with chickpeas, black beans, or even kidney beans. Just remember to adjust the flavor profile based on the bean you choose!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the salad is best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Meal Prep This Salad?
Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time! Just give it at least 15-20 minutes to marinate before eating. If you’re making it in advance, consider adding fresh herbs just before serving to keep them vibrant and aromatic.
Is This Salad Suitable for Vegans?
Absolutely! This Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegan diets. It’s a delicious and nutritious option for everyone!
