This refreshing Mediterranean Bean Salad is perfect for those hot summer days! Packed with colorful veggies, tasty beans, and zesty dressing, it’s a quick and healthy dish.
What’s great is how easy it is to throw together. I just mix everything in a bowl and it’s ready to enjoy! Plus, leftovers are great the next day—if there are any! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These add great protein and texture. If you’re out of chickpeas, you can use black beans or kidney beans as an alternative.
Cannellini Beans: They bring a creamy element to the salad. If unavailable, navy beans or great northern beans work well too.
Cherry Tomatoes: I adore their sweetness! If you can’t find them, regular tomatoes diced into small pieces are a fine substitute.
Cucumber: This gives a nice crunch. You can swap it with diced bell pepper or zucchini for a different texture.
Kalamata Olives: They add a briny flavor. If you prefer, green olives can be used, though they will change the taste slightly.
Feta Cheese: This adds creaminess and tang. For a vegan version, try using tofu feta or omitting it altogether.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Salad?
To really enhance the taste of your Mediterranean Bean Salad, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives all the ingredients time to marry and develop a richer flavor.
- Chop your veggies evenly for consistent bites.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes a bit more lemon juice or a pinch of salt can brighten everything up.
- Don’t rush adding the dressing. Pour it slowly, mixing as you go, to ensure every bite is delicious!
Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans or white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Mediterranean Bean Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes in the fridge to chill. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes, making it a quick and refreshing dish for summer gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the drained chickpeas, cannellini beans, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh parsley. Stir gently to combine everything.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, and season with salt and black pepper. Mix until it’s well combined.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are nicely coated in the dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste the salad and adjust the seasoning, adding a sprinkle of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice if needed to suit your preference.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors come together. When you’re ready to eat, serve it chilled as a light main dish or as a delightful side salad. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Mediterranean Bean Salad!
FAQ About Easy Mediterranean Bean Salad
Can I Use Different Beans?
Absolutely! You can substitute chickpeas and cannellini beans with black beans, kidney beans, or any other beans you prefer. Just make sure to drain and rinse them to keep the salad fresh!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Mediterranean Bean Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together. Just remember to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free or vegan, you can omit the feta cheese or use a vegan feta alternative made from tofu or nuts. It will still be delicious!
