Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Name: Mediterranean White Bean Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487948H11M21S
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) white (cannellini) beans (drained & rinsed); 2 mini cucumbers (or 1/2 English cucumber) (chopped); 1-2 tablespoons red onion (chopped); 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped); 10 ounces little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.) (halved); 1/3 cup Kalamata olives (pitted & chopped); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped); 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar; Salt & pepper (to taste); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

July 16, 2025

Updated:

July 16, 2025

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This Mediterranean white bean salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a healthy lunch option, or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this salad delivers. Packed with protein and vibrant vegetables, it combines classic Greek flavors with the heartiness of white beans. Plus, it’s ready in just 15 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This Mediterranean white bean salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
Nutritious and Filling: With protein from the beans and healthy fats from olives and feta, this salad will keep you satisfied.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch at the beginning of the week for grab-and-go lunches or easy side dishes.
Bursting with Flavor: Fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs ensure that every bite is packed with taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this delicious Mediterranean white bean salad, gather your tools to streamline the preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Chopping board
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
Chopping board: Protects your countertops and provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.

Ingredients

This 15-minute Mediterranean white bean salad recipe is healthy, simple to make, and packed with veggies! Get all your favorite Greek salad flavors with added protein in this quick recipe.

For the Salad

1 (15 fluid ounce) can white (cannellini) beans (drained & rinsed)
2 mini cucumbers (or 1/2 English cucumber) (chopped)
1-2 tablespoons red onion (chopped)
1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
10 ounces little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.) (halved)
1/3 cup Kalamata olives (pitted & chopped)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
Salt & pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your fresh vegetables. Chop them into bite-sized pieces for a pleasant texture.

Step 2: Combine Everything in a Bowl

Add all prepared ingredients into a mixing bowl:
1. Place the drained cannellini beans at the bottom.
2. Layer on chopped cucumbers, red onion, bell pepper, halved tomatoes, Kalamata olives, parsley, and oregano.
3. Crumble feta cheese over the top.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Drizzle olive oil and red apple vinegar over the salad mixture. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Gently toss everything together until well combined. You can serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Enjoy your Mediterranean white bean salad as a nutritious side dish or as a light main course!

How to Serve Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Mediterranean white bean salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a refreshing snack, this salad fits perfectly into any meal.

As a Main Dish

Add Grilled Chicken: Top the salad with grilled chicken for a protein-packed meal.
Serve with Quinoa: Pair the salad with quinoa for an extra boost of fiber and nutrients.

As a Side Dish

Accompany Grilled Fish: This salad complements grilled fish beautifully, adding freshness to the plate.
Pair with Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious meal.

In a Wrap

Wrap it Up: Use large lettuce leaves or whole-grain tortillas to wrap the salad for a portable lunch option.
Add Hummus: Spread hummus inside the wrap before adding the salad for an extra layer of flavor.

For Meal Prep

Store in Containers: Divide the salad into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Keep Dressing Separate: To maintain freshness, store dressing separately until ready to serve.

How to Perfect Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Making the perfect Mediterranean white bean salad is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture.

Bold Ingredients: Choose high-quality olives and feta cheese for a rich taste.
Fresh Herbs: Use fresh parsley instead of dried for brighter flavors.
Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed to suit your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Mediterranean white bean salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some delicious options to consider.

Grilled Pita Bread: Serve warm pita bread alongside for dipping or scooping up the salad.
Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce that adds creaminess and tanginess.
Tabbouleh Salad: A herby bulgur wheat salad that enhances the Mediterranean theme of your meal.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty addition.
Stuffed Grape Leaves: These wraps filled with rice and herbs provide unique textures and flavors.
Hummus Platter: A selection of hummus varieties served with veggie sticks creates a fun appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mediterranean white bean salad, small errors can lead to a less satisfying dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Skipping the rinsing step: Not rinsing canned beans can result in a gritty texture. Always drain and rinse your cannellini beans before adding them to the salad.
Using old vegetables: Freshness is key in salads. Ensure your cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers are crisp and bright for the best flavor.
Overdressing the salad: Adding too much olive oil or vinegar can overpower the other flavors. Start with less dressing and adjust to taste as you mix.
Neglecting seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance the flavors of your ingredients. Don’t forget to season your salad generously!
Not letting it chill: While you can serve immediately, allowing the salad to chill for a bit helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container. This keeps the salad fresh longer.
It lasts for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Keep any leftover dressing separate to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Freezing is not recommended, as vegetables lose their texture.
If necessary, freeze only the beans and add fresh veggies later when ready to serve.

Reheating Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on low power in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring until warmed.
Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mediterranean white bean salad healthy?

Mediterranean white bean salad is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats from olive oil and olives. It’s a nutritious choice that supports overall health.

Can I customize my Mediterranean white bean salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for added flavor and texture.

How long does Mediterranean white bean salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad will last for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep any dressing separate if possible.

What other dishes pair well with Mediterranean white bean salad?

This salad goes perfectly with grilled meats, quinoa bowls, or served as part of a mezze platter alongside hummus and pita bread.

Final Thoughts

Mediterranean white bean salad is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Whether enjoyed as a light meal or a side dish at gatherings, its vibrant flavors are sure to delight everyone! Give it a try today!