Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Name: Mediterranean White Bean Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Daily Plates

I absolutely love making this Mediterranean White Bean Salad! It bursts with fresh flavors and colorful ingredients that make every bite a delight. This salad is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly nutritious, bringing a medley of textures and tastes to the table. Whether as a side dish or a light main, it’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. I especially enjoy the freshness of the herbs paired with the creamy beans, making it a refreshing choice any day of the week.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:25:36.306Z

I remember the first time I stumbled upon a Mediterranean White Bean Salad at a local farmers' market. The vibrant colors and inviting aromas drew me in, and I had to recreate it at home. It’s amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients can create such a satisfying dish that’s packed with protein and fiber!

My favorite part of this recipe is the dressing made from lemon juice and olive oil, which really brings out the flavors of the fresh vegetables. I’ve learned to let the salad sit for a bit after dressing it; it enhances the flavors even more and creates a wonderful harmony of tastes that I can’t get enough of.

Why You'll Love This Salad
Hearty yet refreshing, perfect for any meal.
Loaded with nutritious ingredients that energize.
Simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the vibrant flavors in this Mediterranean White Bean Salad. The cherry tomatoes should be ripe and sweet, giving a burst of juiciness with every bite. Cucumber adds a satisfying crunch, while red onion brings a sharpness that balances the creaminess of the white beans. Opting for Kalamata olives not only adds richness but also a briny depth that elevates the overall dish. If you can't find fresh herbs, dried herbs can work in a pinch, though fresh is always preferred for intensity.

When preparing the salad, ensure you cut your vegetables into uniformly sized pieces. This not only creates a beautiful presentation but also ensures even distributions of flavors. For those who prefer a milder onion flavor, soaking chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes can help tone down the sharpness. Each ingredient serves a purpose, contributing flavor, texture, and nutrition.

Dressing Tips for Maximum Flavor

The dressing is where you can truly enhance the salad's flavor profile. I recommend using a good quality extra virgin olive oil for its fruity notes; it can make a noticeable difference. Adjust the acid balance by starting with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and tasting before adding more. This flexibility allows you to tailor the brightness to your personal preference. Don't skip the dried oregano—it adds a traditional Mediterranean aroma that ties the dish together beautifully.

For an extra twist, consider adding a minced garlic clove or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. These additions can amplify the depth of flavor while complementing the creamy white beans. Dress the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients—the longer it sits dressed, the softer the beans and vegetables may become.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Salad

2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything, let’s get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the white beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, olives, and feta cheese.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to mash the beans.

Let It Sit

Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Your Mediterranean White Bean Salad is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This salad is a fantastic make-ahead option, perfect for meal prep or entertaining. If prepared in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even more delicious by the next day. However, I recommend keeping the feta on the side until serving to prevent it from becoming too soft and losing its texture.

If you find any leftovers, the salad can be enjoyed in various ways. Toss it into a wrap with some grilled chicken for a quick lunch, or serve it over a bed of greens for a filling dinner. The versatility of this salad lends itself to being incorporated into numerous meals throughout the week.

Serving Variations

While the Mediterranean White Bean Salad shines on its own, it can easily be paired with grilled meats or fish. Consider serving it alongside lemon-herb grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Additionally, this salad works excellently as a filling for pita bread, making a refreshing handheld meal option that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Feel free to customize the salad based on seasonal produce—try adding roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or even diced avocado for a creamier texture. Each variation offers a new take on this classic dish, allowing it to fit perfectly into any meal rotation or celebration throughout the year.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance; just keep it refrigerated. The flavors will develop even more!

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using avocado or a vegan cheese alternative.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use canned beans?

Absolutely! Canned beans are convenient; just be sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the salad.