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This light and refreshing White Bean Salad is packed with protein, fiber, and fresh flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch or a bright side dish, it features tender white beans, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together.
Enjoy it as is or pair it with your favorite protein for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Requires minimal prep and uses pantry staples like canned beans.
- High in Protein & Fiber: White beans deliver a hearty dose of nutrients to keep you full and energized.
- Versatile & Customizable: Add or swap out veggies based on what’s in your fridge.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes great the next day, so make a batch for lunches or busy weeknights.
- Naturally Gluten-Free & Vegan: Suits various dietary needs without any adjustments.
What to Serve with White Bean Salad
- Light Soup: A simple vegetable or tomato soup complements the salad well.
- Crusty Bread: Sop up every bit of the tangy dressing.
- Grilled Protein: Chicken, fish, or tofu pairs beautifully for a more substantial meal.
- Fresh Greens: Serve over a bed of leafy greens for added color and nutrients.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Simple Dressing: Made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and seasoning for a zesty finish.
- White Beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans work best, providing creaminess and protein.
- Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch to contrast the soft beans.
- Cherry Tomatoes: A burst of juicy sweetness and acidity.
- Red Onion: Offers a sharp bite and vibrant color.
- Bell Pepper (Optional): Extra crunch and color—choose any color you like.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Basil): Brightens the dish with a flavorful, aromatic touch.
Pro Tip Before Starting
Rinse and drain your canned beans thoroughly under cold water. This helps remove excess sodium and improves the overall taste and texture of the beans.
White Bean Salad
A light and protein-rich salad featuring creamy white beans, crisp vegetables, and a bright, lemony dressing that comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the drained and rinsed white beans, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper (if using), and fresh herbs.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve & Enjoy: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors deepen.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make-Ahead: Since there’s no cooking required, prep your veggies in advance and mix everything when ready to eat.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure any added ingredients meet GF standards.
- Vegan Option: Already vegan—simply use the listed plant-based ingredients.
- Add Protein: Feel free to add chickpeas or baked tofu for an even more substantial salad.
Pro Tip After Preparing
If you plan to enjoy leftovers, wait to add the fresh herbs until just before serving to keep their flavor bright and vibrant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned ones?
Absolutely! Just soak and cook dried beans according to package instructions before adding them to the salad.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to mix in corn, olives, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container. The flavors meld nicely overnight.
Can I use another type of dressing?
Yes! Balsamic vinaigrette or a simple Italian dressing also pairs well with white beans.
Wrapping it up
Savor the simplicity and nourishment of this White Bean Salad, a refreshing and protein-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weekdays or a crowd-pleasing potluck side.
With its crisp vegetables, creamy beans, and bright dressing, it’s sure to become one of your go-to healthy meals.
Give it a try, and enjoy a flavorful salad that’s ready in just minutes!
