Refreshing White Bean Salad with Lemon-Garlic Dressing | YumAndJoy

Refreshing White Bean Salad with Lemon-Garlic Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This refreshing white bean salad is a light yet protein-packed dish, bursting with fresh flavors from cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a zesty lemon-garlic dressing. It’s quick to make, incredibly nutritious, and works perfectly as a side dish or a wholesome main meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a last-minute dish for a gathering, this salad is a deliciously satisfying option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • White beans (cannellini or great northern, drained and rinsed)
  • Cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • Cucumber (diced)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Olive oil
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon zest
  • Red onion (finely chopped, optional)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
  2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the white beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion (if using).
  3. Mix & Toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients.
  4. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

  • Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crumbled feta for a heartier dish.
  • Herb Boost: Swap parsley for basil, cilantro, or mint for a fresh twist.
  • Extra Crunch: Add chopped bell peppers or toasted almonds for texture.
  • Dressing Alternative: Try a balsamic vinaigrette instead of lemon-garlic dressing.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: No need to reheat—this salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the beans and vegetables may change.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes! Cook dried white beans according to package instructions before using.

What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours, as the flavors meld together.

How do I keep the salad from getting watery?

Use an English cucumber or remove the seeds from a regular cucumber before dicing.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes! All ingredients are plant-based.

Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?

Absolutely! Lime juice adds a slightly different citrusy flavor but works well.

How do I make it spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño.

What type of white beans work best?

Cannellini or great northern beans are ideal for their creamy texture.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes! Feta or goat cheese add a tangy, creamy element.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store in a sealed container in the fridge; stir before serving as the dressing may settle.

Conclusion

Refreshing white bean salad with lemon-garlic dressing is a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side or a main meal, it’s an easy way to enjoy fresh, wholesome ingredients with minimal effort. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a nutritious and delicious salad anytime!

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Refreshing White Bean Salad with Lemon-Garlic Dressing

Refreshing White Bean Salad with Lemon-Garlic Dressing


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Refreshing White Bean Salad is a light and protein-packed dish, bursting with fresh cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and zesty garlic. Tossed in a vibrant lemon-garlic dressing, this Mediterranean-inspired salad is perfect as a healthy side dish or a satisfying vegetarian meal!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Salad:

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Lemon-Garlic Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine white beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano until well combined.
  3. Toss & Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  4. Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Add feta cheese or avocado for extra creaminess.
  • Serve with grilled chicken or fish for a protein boost.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
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