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Mediterranean Bean Salad

This vibrant Mediterranean Bean Salad combines tender beans with fresh herbs, sharp lemon, and rich olive oil, creating a refreshing dish with a delightful mix of creamy and crunchy textures. Served cool or at room temperature, it’s a quick, nourishing, and visually appealing meal or side that captures the essence of simple, wholesome ingredients. The salad’s bright flavors and varied textures make it both satisfying and uplifting, perfect for warm days or anytime you crave a burst of sunshine on your plate.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dried beans (mixed kidney, chickpeas, cannellini) soaked overnight and cooked until tender
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped and soaked in water for 10 minutes
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil preferably fruity and peppery
  • 1 large lemon freshly squeezed juice
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • optional to taste crumbled feta cheese for added richness

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Lemon juicer or lemon squeezer
  • Whisk or fork

Method
 

  1. Drain and rinse the cooked beans gently to remove any excess salt and water, then transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Finely chop the red onion, then soak it in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow its sharpness. Drain and add to the bowl with the beans.
  3. Rinse and finely chop the parsley and mint, then sprinkle them over the beans and onion for a burst of fresh herbal aroma.
  4. Using a lemon juicer or your hands, extract the juice from the fresh lemon and pour it into a small bowl or directly over the salad ingredients.
  5. Whisk together the lemon juice with olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Pour this dressing over the salad ingredients.
  6. Gently toss all the ingredients together with a large spoon or spatula, ensuring the beans and herbs are well coated with the dressing. The mixture should look vibrant and evenly combined.
  7. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice for brightness.
  8. Cover the bowl and let the salad rest at room temperature or in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the textures to develop.
  9. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss again, taste, and add any final seasoning adjustments. Optionally, sprinkle with crumbled feta for extra creaminess.
  10. Enjoy this bright, textured Mediterranean Bean Salad straight from the bowl, served cool or at room temperature.