🫘 Italian White Bean Salad
🍽️ Serves: 3–4
⏰ Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
⭐ Difficulty: Easy
🌿 Perfect for: Lunch, side dish, or healthy snack
🧂 Ingredients
For the Salad:
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1 can (400 g / 15 oz) cannellini beans or white navy beans, drained and rinsed
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ small red onion, thinly sliced
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½ cucumber, diced
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¼ cup kalamata or black olives, sliced
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¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
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¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Dressing:
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3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1½ tbsp red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
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1 small garlic clove, minced
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for creaminess)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
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Drain and rinse the beans.
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Slice the cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and olives.
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Chop the herbs finely.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic, oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
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In a large bowl, add the beans, tomatoes, onion, cucumber, olives, and herbs.
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Pour over the dressing and toss gently until everything is coated evenly.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Serve
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Sprinkle with crumbled feta (if using) and drizzle with a bit more olive oil.
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Serve immediately, or chill for 20–30 minutes before serving for deeper flavor.
💚 Optional Add-ins
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Roasted red peppers for sweetness
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Sun-dried tomatoes for extra tang
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Capers for a salty punch
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Tuna or grilled chicken for added protein
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Spinach or arugula for more greens
💡 Q&A Section
Q1: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
👉 Yes! Soak 1 cup dried white beans overnight, then simmer until tender (about 45–60 minutes). Let cool before adding to the salad.
Q2: How long can I store this salad?
👉 It keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge in an airtight container. It even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld!
Q3: Can I make it vegan?
👉 Absolutely — just skip the feta cheese or use vegan feta.
Q4: What can I serve it with?
👉 It’s great alongside grilled fish, chicken, or pita bread. You can also serve it over greens or quinoa for a complete meal.
Q5: Can I add more flavor?
👉 Try a sprinkle of Parmesan, a few chili flakes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth.