This colorful Mediterranean Bean Salad is packed with tasty beans, crunchy veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s not just good for you; it’s a feast for your eyes and your belly!
I love how quick this dish is to throw together—perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Just mix, toss, and enjoy. Plus, it keeps well, so I can munch on it for days! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cannellini Beans: These beans add a creamy texture. You can substitute with navy beans or even black beans if needed. Just make sure to rinse well!
Garbanzo Beans: Also known as chickpeas, they are essential for protein. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you could swap them out for kidney beans or lentils.
Cherry Tomatoes: They are sweet and juicy, perfect for this salad! Regular tomatoes worked well if that’s what you have, just chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Kalamata Olives: They provide a briny flavor. If these aren’t available, green olives or even capers can work as alternatives. Just be aware of the saltiness!
Feta Cheese: I love the tangy kick of feta. If you’re vegan or avoiding dairy, try using a vegan feta or skip it altogether.
Fresh Parsley: This herb adds freshness. Feel free to replace it with basil or cilantro if you prefer a different herb.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for My Salad?
The dressing is crucial for tying flavors together. To make it, blend olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Here’s an easy way to get it just right:
- Start with high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Add vinegar gradually; taste as you go to get the tang level you prefer.
- Whisk until emulsified; this will help the ingredients stick to the salad better.
It’s a good idea to let it sit for 10 minutes before using, as this lets the flavors meld together even more. Enjoy pouring it over the salad!
How to Make Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Bean Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. So, you can whip it up quickly and let it sit while you get ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cannellini beans, garbanzo beans, halved cherry tomatoes, diced celery, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, and chopped parsley. Stir gently to mix everything together without breaking the beans.
2. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Make sure it’s well combined, creating a nice dressing to coat your salad.
3. Combining the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over your mixed beans and vegetables. Gently toss everything together, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Adding Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad and mix lightly to combine. Be careful not to break the feta too much; you want lovely chunks in your salad!
5. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the salad in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors to come together beautifully.
6. Serving:
Once chilled, serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It’s a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any meal or gathering. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Bean Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While cannellini and garbanzo beans are traditional choices, you can substitute with other types of beans like kidney beans or black beans. Just ensure they are drained and rinsed to keep the texture fresh and light!
How Long Can I Store This Salad?
This Mediterranean Bean Salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you notice any liquid separation, just give it a stir before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. You can also add additional vegetables or even some avocado for creaminess. It will still be delicious and satisfying!
What Can I Add for Extra Crunch?
If you’re looking for extra crunch, consider adding diced cucumber, radishes, or even some toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. These add some nice texture and flavor variations to the salad!
