Mediterranean Bean Salad

There’s a reason Mediterranean cuisine has stood the test of time. It’s fresh, it’s simple, and it celebrates bold, clean flavors that nourish you from the inside out. This Mediterranean White Bean Salad fits right into that tradition, combining creamy cannellini beans with crisp vegetables, salty feta, and briny olives—all tossed in a light red wine vinaigrette that ties everything together in the most delicious way. The result is a salad that’s refreshing, satisfying, and wonderfully versatile.

I first discovered this salad during a trip to a coastal Mediterranean restaurant where everything tasted like sunshine on a plate. I ordered a bean salad as a side dish and was immediately struck by how much flavor could be packed into such humble ingredients. There was no lettuce to wilt, no heavy dressing to mask the freshness. Just beans, vegetables, herbs, and a splash of vinegar and olive oil—clean, straightforward, and absolutely delicious. When I got home, I knew I had to recreate it.

After a bit of experimentation and several batches shared with friends and family, this version became my go-to. It’s everything you want in a salad: bright, filling, and bursting with texture. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to throw together. With just 15 minutes of prep and no cooking required, you can whip up a batch any day of the week, whether you’re preparing lunch, packing a picnic, or adding a colorful side to your dinner spread.

But what really makes this salad shine is its balance. The creamy white beans offer a satisfying bite, while the crunchy cucumbers and bell peppers bring freshness and snap. The tomatoes add a juicy sweetness, the red onion gives a bit of bite, and the olives and feta offer just the right touch of saltiness to round everything out. Finished with chopped parsley and dried oregano, the flavors feel classic yet vibrant.

What’s more, this is the kind of salad that keeps well. Since there’s no leafy base, it doesn’t get soggy or limp in the fridge. That makes it ideal for meal prep—you can enjoy it over several days, and the flavors just keep getting better. It’s also an incredibly flexible recipe, allowing you to easily adapt it to what you have on hand or to suit dietary preferences.

So whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish for grilled chicken, or a meatless main that doesn’t leave you hungry, this Mediterranean white bean salad delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Once you try this Mediterranean white bean salad, it’s easy to see why it becomes a staple for so many home cooks. There’s something about the mix of flavors and textures that makes each bite feel exciting, while the ease of preparation makes it a no-brainer for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings. Let’s break down all the reasons this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

To start, it’s fast. With only 15 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together faster than most takeout orders. There’s no cooking involved, and since it uses mostly pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, it’s an ideal choice when your fridge feels a little sparse.

Then there’s the fact that it’s nutrient-dense and satisfying. Unlike some salads that leave you rummaging for snacks an hour later, this one is filling in the best possible way. Cannellini beans are loaded with protein and fiber, which help keep you full and energized. The feta adds a bit of fat and a creamy, tangy counterpoint to the crunchier elements, while the veggies deliver a medley of textures that keep your palate engaged from start to finish.

You’ll also love how balanced and bold the flavors are. The red wine vinegar and olive oil form a simple yet impactful dressing that lifts the dish without overpowering it. The oregano and parsley offer that unmistakable Mediterranean flavor, while the olives and feta bring in the richness and saltiness that round out every bite.

This salad is also incredibly flexible. Missing cucumbers? Use chopped celery or zucchini. Don’t have cannellini beans? Swap in chickpeas, butter beans, or even lentils for a slightly different twist. You can double the tomatoes, skip the olives, or toss in some artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers. It’s the kind of recipe that adapts beautifully to your preferences and pantry.

Another bonus is that this salad holds up exceptionally well in the fridge. Because it doesn’t contain any delicate greens, you can make it ahead and enjoy it over the next few days. In fact, the flavors deepen and become even more cohesive with time, making this an ideal option for meal prep or entertaining.

It also pairs well with so many dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light dinner, spoon it over greens or into pita pockets for lunch, or enjoy it on its own with some warm flatbread and a dollop of hummus. Whether you’re hosting guests or feeding yourself, it fits seamlessly into nearly any menu.

In short, you’ll love this salad because it’s easy, delicious, customizable, and just a little bit addictive.

Health Benefits Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Beyond its bright flavors and versatility, this Mediterranean white bean salad is a powerhouse of nutrition. Every ingredient in this dish contributes something valuable, making it a great choice whether you’re eating for energy, supporting your heart health, or simply trying to add more plant-based meals into your diet.

First, let’s look at the white beans. Cannellini beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which supports muscle maintenance, energy levels, and overall satiety. They’re also high in dietary fiber, which promotes good digestion, balances blood sugar, and supports cardiovascular health. Fiber also plays a critical role in keeping you full longer, making this salad a smart choice for managing hunger and avoiding empty snacking later in the day. On top of that, white beans are rich in iron, magnesium, potassium, and folate—nutrients your body needs for energy production and overall function.

Next, we have cucumbers, which are naturally hydrating and low in calories. They provide vitamin K, an important nutrient for bone health and blood clotting, and they offer a crisp, refreshing texture that adds contrast to the creamy beans.

Tomatoes, especially the cherry or grape varieties used here, are loaded with antioxidants like lycopene, which is linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease. Tomatoes also provide vitamin C, potassium, and beta-carotene, supporting immune function and skin health.

Red bell peppers are among the most nutrient-dense vegetables, particularly rich in vitamin C. In fact, just half a red bell pepper can provide more than 100% of your daily vitamin C needs. They also contain vitamin A and various antioxidants that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

The addition of red onions not only brings a sharp, pungent flavor but also contributes antioxidants such as quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. They’re also beneficial for heart health and may help lower cholesterol levels.

Kalamata olives offer healthy monounsaturated fats, which are excellent for heart health and may help reduce inflammation. They’re also a good source of vitamin E and iron. While olives are high in sodium, the modest amount used in this salad adds flavor without going overboard.

Feta cheese adds creaminess and a satisfying richness while also contributing protein and calcium. Made traditionally from sheep’s milk, it tends to be easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese for some individuals. In moderation, it’s a flavorful, nutrient-rich addition.

Olive oil, used in the dressing, is another source of monounsaturated fat and polyphenols, both of which support cardiovascular and brain health. When paired with the vegetables in this salad, it also helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

Red wine vinegar offers its own small health benefits. Though used in modest amounts, it may help regulate blood sugar and improve digestion. The tanginess it brings also helps you use less salt overall.

Lastly, the herbs and seasonings—parsley and oregano—aren’t just for flavor. Parsley contains vitamins A, C, and K, while dried oregano provides antioxidants and may offer antibacterial properties.

Put it all together, and you have a salad that’s low in added sugars and processed ingredients, naturally gluten-free, rich in fiber and healthy fats, and packed with nutrients that support long-term health.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information Mediterranean White Bean Salad

One of the most appealing aspects of this Mediterranean white bean salad is how quickly and easily it comes together. You don’t need any cooking skills, fancy equipment, or even a stove. With just a bit of chopping and tossing, you’ll have a beautiful, nourishing salad ready to serve in no time.

Total Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6 as a side, 2–4 as a main dish

Because this recipe involves no cooking, it’s perfect for hot summer days when you want something fresh but don’t want to turn on the oven. It’s also an ideal solution for last-minute guests, potlucks, or packed lunches.

The number of servings will depend on how you’re using the salad. As a side dish, it easily serves six people. If you’re enjoying it as a main course, especially for lunch, you can plan on two to four servings depending on portion size.

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming the salad is divided into four portions as a main dish):

  • Calories: 280

  • Protein: 11 grams

  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams

  • Fiber: 7 grams

  • Fat: 15 grams

  • Saturated Fat: 4 grams

  • Cholesterol: 15 milligrams

  • Sodium: 380 milligrams

  • Vitamin C: 80% of daily value

  • Calcium: 20% of daily value

  • Iron: 15% of daily value

These values will vary slightly based on your ingredient brands and portion sizes, but overall, this salad offers a balanced macronutrient profile that’s ideal for both light meals and satisfying sides.

Ingredients List Mediterranean White Bean Salad

This Mediterranean white bean salad comes together with just a handful of accessible ingredients, most of which you may already have in your pantry or fridge. Each item serves a purpose, contributing to the overall balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:

  • 1 can (15 oz) of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: These creamy white beans form the base of the salad. Their mild flavor makes them a perfect canvas for the bolder Mediterranean ingredients.

  • 2 mini cucumbers, chopped (or ½ of an English cucumber): Cucumbers add crunch and a clean, refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the beans and feta.

  • 1 to 2 tablespoons of red onion, finely chopped: Just enough to add a little bite without overpowering the salad. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes before using.

  • ½ of a red bell pepper, chopped: This adds natural sweetness, crunch, and a pop of color.

  • 10 ounces of cherry or grape tomatoes, halved: These juicy tomatoes contribute acidity and sweetness, complementing the savory elements of the dish.

  • ⅓ cup of Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped: Briny and rich, olives deepen the Mediterranean flavor profile. Be sure to use good-quality olives for the best results.

  • 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs add brightness and lift to the salad. Flat-leaf parsley works best here.

  • ½ teaspoon of dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean seasoning, oregano enhances the herbaceous quality of the dish and complements the other ingredients beautifully.

  • ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese: The salty, tangy feta ties everything together and adds creaminess without making the salad heavy.

  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil: Used to dress the salad lightly, olive oil adds richness and helps bring out the flavor of the vegetables.

  • 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar: This vinegar provides tang and sharpness, perfectly balancing the oil and making the salad taste fresh.

  • Salt and pepper, to taste: Start with a pinch, then taste and adjust as needed. The olives and feta add natural saltiness, so be careful not to overdo it.

🫘 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions Mediterranean White Bean Salad

Let’s just go ahead and call this what it is: the easiest Mediterranean salad you’ll ever make, and quite possibly the most satisfying. It’s fresh, crunchy, salty, herbaceous, and gets better the longer it sits. Oh—and it comes together in 15 minutes flat with zero cooking required. Can we get a yes, please?

If you’ve never made a bean salad before, or if you’re just trying to mix up your usual side dish routine, this one’s a game-changer. Let’s break it down from start to finish with lots of helpful tips along the way.


🛒 Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you chop a single tomato, get everything out and ready. This keeps things smooth and helps you avoid forgetting something halfway through (looking at you, olives hiding in the back of the fridge).

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 can cannellini beans – drained and rinsed

  • 2 mini cucumbers (or ½ English cucumber), chopped

  • 1–2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped

  • ½ red bell pepper, chopped

  • 10 oz cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

  • ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

  • Salt and pepper, to taste


🥣 Step 2: Rinse and Prep the Beans

Start with your cannellini beans. They’re creamy, mild, and perfect for absorbing the Mediterranean-inspired flavors of this salad.

  1. Open the can and pour the beans into a colander.

  2. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium and that starchy canning liquid.

  3. Let them drain while you prep the other ingredients. You don’t want any extra moisture diluting your salad dressing.

💡 Pro Tip: Want a twist? Swap cannellini beans for chickpeas or butter beans for a slightly firmer texture.


🔪 Step 3: Chop the Veggies

Next up—veggie prep! Take your time here. Clean, uniform cuts make for a prettier presentation and a better bite.

  • Cucumber: Slice mini cucumbers into coins, then quarter each coin for bite-sized chunks. If you’re using English cucumber, halve lengthwise and dice.

  • Red onion: Finely chop. Start with 1 tablespoon—this stuff is potent—and you can always add more if you love the bite.

  • Red bell pepper: Remove the core and seeds, then dice into small pieces.

  • Tomatoes: Halve them. If using larger cherry tomatoes, quarter them. The juicier they are, the more they’ll blend into the dressing.

  • Olives: Roughly chop the Kalamatas—don’t worry about uniformity; rustic works here.

  • Parsley: Fresh is best. Finely chop and set aside.

If you’re making this ahead, keep the onion and tomatoes separate and mix them in just before serving to preserve maximum crunch and flavor.


🧴 Step 4: Make the Simple Dressing

No blender, no fancy emulsifiers—this dressing is as easy as it gets.

  1. In a small bowl or jar, combine:

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil

    • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

    • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

    • A few pinches of salt and black pepper

  2. Stir or shake until combined.

Optional upgrades:

  • A squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness

  • A tiny minced garlic clove if you like that garlicky bite


🥗 Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Now comes the satisfying part—bringing it all together.

  1. In a large bowl, combine:

    • Drained cannellini beans

    • All chopped veggies

    • Chopped olives

    • Fresh parsley

  2. Pour the dressing over everything.

  3. Use a large spoon or salad tongs to gently toss the salad until every bite is dressed and gorgeous.

Finally, add the crumbled feta and do a final gentle toss. The cheese will blend in slightly with the dressing, making it even creamier and more flavorful.


🕒 Step 6: Taste and Chill (Optional But Recommended)

Take a quick taste test. Need more salt? More vinegar? Now’s your moment to tweak.

You can serve the salad right away, but it’s even better after 30–60 minutes in the fridge. Letting it chill helps the flavors meld together, and the beans soak up all that vinaigrette goodness.

Mediterranean White Bean Salad


🍽 How to Serve Mediterranean White Bean Salad

This salad is a total shape-shifter—in the best way. You can serve it as a hearty side, a refreshing main, or build it into something brand new. Here are some of our favorite ways to make it work:


🧺 1. As a Picnic or Potluck Star

This salad travels like a dream. Since there’s no lettuce or mayo-based dressing, it won’t wilt or spoil quickly, even in warm weather.

Bring it to:

  • Summer BBQs

  • Beach picnics

  • Potluck parties

  • Meal trains for friends or neighbors


🥗 2. As a Light Vegetarian Lunch or Dinner

It’s protein-packed, filling, and flavorful all on its own. Just pile it high into a bowl, maybe add a slice of warm pita or a scoop of hummus on the side, and you’re golden.

Want to bulk it up?

  • Serve it over quinoa, farro, or couscous

  • Add a handful of arugula or spinach for greens

  • Top with a boiled egg or a scoop of avocado


🌯 3. In Wraps or Pita Pockets

Scoop the salad into warm pita bread or a tortilla with a spread of hummus or tahini. Wrap it up and go!

You can even add grilled chicken, shrimp, or falafel if you want to turn it into a more substantial meal.


🍳 4. As a Savory Breakfast

Yes, really! Spoon some of this bean salad over toasted sourdough and top with a poached egg. The vinaigrette mingles with the runny yolk, and it’s chef’s kiss.


🧑‍🍳 Pairing Suggestions

This salad has all the bold, classic Mediterranean elements—briny olives, tangy vinegar, creamy feta, juicy tomatoes. So when it comes to pairing it with other dishes, you want to complement those flavors without overwhelming them.

Here are some of our tried-and-true pairings:


🍗 Protein Ideas

  1. Grilled Chicken or Shrimp – A simple lemon-garlic marinade goes a long way and pairs beautifully with the herbs in the salad.

  2. Baked Falafel – Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and so good alongside the creamy beans.

  3. Za’atar Chicken Thighs – Herb-forward and hearty, especially if you’re making the salad your side dish.

  4. Tuna or Salmon Cakes – Add a little squeeze of lemon and you’ve got a fresh, coastal-inspired combo.


🍞 Grains & Breads

  • Warm pita or naan – Use it to scoop up every bite

  • Herby couscous – Tossed with mint and lemon

  • Farro or quinoa – The nutty flavor makes a great base for turning this into a salad bowl

  • Brown rice or bulgur – Another hearty foundation if you’re serving this salad as part of a larger mezze platter


🥤 Drinks & Mocktails

Keep your drinks light and bright, just like the salad.

  • Minty cucumber water

  • Sparkling lemonade

  • Pomegranate mocktail with lime and soda water

  • Iced green tea with honey

A spritz of citrus, a bit of fizz, or a touch of herbal sweetness pairs perfectly with the tangy bite of the vinegar and the saltiness of the feta.


🧊 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this white bean salad? It’s made for meal prep. It stores well, travels well, and somehow tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious for as long as possible.


🧊 Fridge Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

  • The flavors continue to develop, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better on Day 2 or 3.

  • If it starts to dry out, just add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of vinegar before serving.

Meal prep tip: If you’re planning to eat it throughout the week, you can prep the components separately and toss them together fresh each day. Especially helpful if you want to keep the cucumbers crisp and the onions mellow.


❄️ Freezing?

Nope. This salad isn’t freezer-friendly.

Cucumbers, tomatoes, and beans all change texture dramatically when frozen and thawed—usually ending in a mushy, watery mess. Save your freezer space for proteins, broths, and grains.


🔁 Reheating?

This salad is meant to be served cold or room temperature, so no reheating needed! But if you’re pairing it with a warm main (like grilled chicken or fish), just let the salad sit out for 10–15 minutes to knock the chill off. That brings the flavors out even more.


🧠 Quick Refresh Trick

If your salad has been sitting for a couple of days:

  1. Add a tiny splash of olive oil and vinegar

  2. Stir gently to coat everything evenly

  3. Sprinkle a little fresh parsley or feta on top for that just-made feel

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Mediterranean White Bean Salad is crazy easy and doesn’t require any cooking, there are a few easy-to-miss details that can totally shift the flavor and texture. Let’s walk through the most common mistakes so your salad turns out fresh, balanced, and absolutely delicious every time.

1. Using Beans Straight from the Can Without Rinsing

This is probably the biggest rookie mistake. Canned beans come in a salty, starchy liquid that can muddy the flavor of your salad. Be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. It’ll make a huge difference in the clean, bright flavor of your dish.

2. Over-chopping or Under-chopping Ingredients

This salad is all about balance. You want a little bit of everything in each bite, so aim for uniform sizes when chopping. If the tomatoes are halved and the cucumbers are in big chunks, the flavors won’t mix as well. Consistency is key.

3. Going Too Heavy on the Vinegar or Salt Early

It’s tempting to dress the salad all at once, but hold off and taste as you go. Feta and olives already add a lot of saltiness, and red wine vinegar has a bold flavor. Start light, then adjust seasoning at the end. Your taste buds will thank you.

4. Skipping the Chill Time (If You Can Spare It)

While this salad is totally fine to serve right away, it gets so much better if you give it 20–30 minutes in the fridge. The flavors meld, the beans absorb the seasoning, and everything just feels a little more cohesive.

5. Forgetting Fresh Herbs

Don’t overlook the parsley. It might seem like just a garnish, but it adds a pop of freshness that really lifts the whole dish. No parsley? Fresh mint or dill can be fun swaps, too.

Avoiding these easy-to-make mistakes will keep your salad vibrant, well-balanced, and seriously satisfying.


🌟 Pro Tips for the Best Mediterranean White Bean Salad

This salad is already a superstar in terms of flavor, texture, and simplicity—but if you want to take it up a notch or two? These pro tips are here to help you turn a simple side into something you’ll make again and again.

1. Use High-Quality Olive Oil and Vinegar

When your dressing is only two ingredients—olive oil and red wine vinegar—quality really matters. Go for an extra-virgin olive oil with a smooth, peppery finish and a red wine vinegar that’s tangy but not too sharp. It’ll completely elevate the final flavor.

2. Let It Marinate

If time allows, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the beans time to soak up the olive oil, vinegar, and herb flavors, and helps the ingredients “get to know each other.” The result? Way more flavor in every bite.

3. Add Protein for a Full Meal

This salad is a fantastic base for building a more filling dish. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even hard-boiled eggs for a hearty protein boost. If you’re going plant-based, toss in a handful of chickpeas or a scoop of quinoa for more texture and staying power.

4. Play With Herbs and Add-ins

Fresh parsley is classic here, but this salad plays nicely with mint, basil, or dill too. You can also add chopped artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes to switch up the flavor profile.

5. Make It a Mason Jar Salad

For easy grab-and-go lunches, layer the salad into mason jars! Start with the dressing, then add beans, olives, onions, cucumbers, tomatoes, and finish with feta. When you’re ready to eat, give it a good shake and enjoy.

With these tweaks and tips, your white bean salad will go from quick-and-easy side dish to a go-to meal prep staple or colorful potluck favorite.


❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

This white bean salad may be simple, but it’s surprisingly versatile. Here are some of the most common questions to help you customize it, troubleshoot, or adapt it for your specific needs.


1. Can I use a different kind of bean?

Absolutely! Cannellini beans are soft and creamy, but chickpeas, great northern beans, or butter beans all work well here. Just make sure they’re rinsed and drained thoroughly before using. Chickpeas will give the salad a bit more chew, while butter beans add an extra velvety texture.


2. How long will this salad last in the fridge?

This salad will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it great for meal prep. Just know that the feta may soften a bit and the cucumbers can lose a little crunch after day 2—but it still tastes amazing.


3. Is it okay to make this without feta cheese?

Totally. If you’re dairy-free or just not a feta fan, try:

  • Crumbled vegan feta

  • Diced avocado for creaminess

  • Or just skip it! The salad still packs plenty of flavor from the olives, vinegar, and herbs.


4. Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s a great strategy if you’re planning for a gathering or meal prepping. Chop all your veggies and store them separately from the beans and dressing. Combine everything a couple hours before serving to let the flavors come together without losing freshness.


5. What pairs well with this salad?

It’s super versatile! Try it with:

  • Grilled chicken or lamb

  • Cilantro Lime Chicken (yes, we’re looking at you!)

  • Pita bread or falafel

  • A side of hummus and olives

It also makes a great stuffing for wraps or pita pockets for an easy lunch.


🥄 Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome, and flavor-packed salad that works for everything from weekday lunches to backyard dinners, this Mediterranean White Bean Salad checks all the boxes. It’s crunchy, creamy, fresh, and zesty—and it comes together in just 15 minutes.

What makes this salad such a winner for me is the way it hits that perfect middle ground between refreshing and satisfying. The creamy cannellini beans give it substance, while the cucumbers, bell pepper, and tomatoes bring in that garden-fresh crunch. The olives and feta? Salty, briny flavor bombs in every bite. And don’t even get me started on the olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing—it’s simple, clean, and full of tangy Mediterranean charm.

This is the kind of dish you can serve alongside grilled meat or fish, enjoy on its own for a light lunch, or toss into a meal prep container for the week ahead. And the best part? You can totally make it your own. Sub in different beans, toss in some leftover roasted veggies, or finish with a few croutons for extra crunch.

So here’s your gentle nudge: go grab a can of beans and a handful of fresh veggies, and throw together this salad. It’s easy, adaptable, and guaranteed to brighten up your plate (and your day).

And hey, if you make this, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your version in the comments, snap a photo and tag me on Instagram, or let me know how you made it your own. Your creativity always inspires me—and other readers too.

Happy tossing, and enjoy every fresh, flavor-filled bite! 🫘💚🥗

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Mediterranean Bean Salad

Mediterranean Bean Salad


  • Author: Abby Lawson
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 side servings or 24 main servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Mediterranean White Bean Salad is one of those magical meals that’s equal parts refreshing, filling, and totally foolproof. It’s packed with fiber-rich cannellini beans, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and briny olives, all tossed in a simple red wine vinaigrette with feta and herbs. With no lettuce in sight, it holds up beautifully in the fridge—making it a top-tier choice for meal prep, picnics, or light weekday lunches. It’s basically summer in a bowl!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

  • 2 mini cucumbers (or ½ English cucumber), chopped

  • 12 tbsp red onion, chopped

  • ½ red bell pepper, chopped

  • 10 oz cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

  • ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

  • Prep the ingredients: Rinse the beans, chop all veggies, and measure your seasonings.

  • Combine in a large bowl: Toss together beans, cucumbers, onion, bell pepper, tomatoes, olives, parsley, oregano, and feta.

  • Dress the salad: Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Mix and taste: Stir well and adjust flavors as needed—add more oil, vinegar, or feta based on your preferences.

  • Chill or serve: Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for 30+ minutes to let the flavors come together even more.

Notes

  • No feta? Try goat cheese or leave it out for a dairy-free version.

  • Need it heartier? Add grilled chicken, tuna, or shrimp for a protein boost.

  • Other beans: Chickpeas or butter beans work just as well here!

  • Make-ahead friendly: Holds up great in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, even dressed.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Category: Salad / Side
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

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