Name: Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ⅓ cup olive oil; 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 large lemon); 3 tablespoons red vinegar; 2 teaspoons dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder); ½ teaspoon oregano; ½ teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste); freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 19oz can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (white kidney beans); 19oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 15oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; half an English cucumber, quartered and sliced; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced; 1 bell pepper, diced (red, orange or yellow); ½ cup kalamata olives, sliced; ½ cup chopped fresh parsley; ½ cup small-dice red onion; 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh basil (about 20 medium leaves); ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (113 g)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 10 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant, fresh, and incredibly satisfying side, you’ve got to try this Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe. It’s a colorful, protein-packed delight that brings together the creaminess of cannellini and kidney beans with the bright zing of lemon and fresh herbs. Perfect for anything from casual potlucks to sprucing up your weeknight dinners, this salad bursts with flavors and textures that make it feel like a celebration on your plate. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and easy to whip up in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to for nourishing, wholesome meals without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round wooden bowl contains a vibrant salad arranged in seven distinct sections: pale beige chickpeas, chopped purple-red onion, halved bright red cherry tomatoes, chopped green herbs, dark red kidney beans, thick slices of light green cucumber, and sliced dark purple olives, with a small section of creamy white beans beside the olives. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, surrounded by fresh parsley on the top right, a green and white striped cloth on the bottom right, a halved lemon and garlic on the bottom left, a cucumber partially off-frame on the left, and a white bowl with a wooden spoon holding a greenish dressing near the top left. The image is bright, fresh, and clean. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the tender beans providing hearty texture to the crisp vegetables adding brightness and color. The fresh herbs and feta cheese bring that unmistakable Mediterranean flair, while the zesty dressing ties everything together with just the right punch of acidity and richness.

Olive oil: This extra virgin olive oil adds a smooth, fruity base that perfectly balances the acidity in the dressing.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the salad with a fresh citrus zing that wakes up all the flavors.
Red vinegar: Adds a subtle tanginess that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle, sharp heat that helps emulsify the dressing for a creamy texture.
Garlic: Either minced fresh or powdered, it offers a deep savory note that’s essential for authentic flavor.
Oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly bitter herbal touch that screams Mediterranean.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: These seasonings highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them.
Cannellini beans: Creamy and mild, these white kidney beans provide a wonderful base for the salad.
Kidney beans: Their robust, slightly sweet flavor adds an extra layer of heartiness.
Chickpeas: Nutty and firm, chickpeas give the salad a delightful bite and plenty of protein.
English cucumber: Adds crisp, refreshing goodness and a burst of hydration.
Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they bring pops of vivid red color and flavor.
Bell pepper: Choose red, orange, or yellow for sweetness and crunch, plus beautiful hues.
Kalamata olives: Their briny, fruity richness deepens the Mediterranean notes.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley delivers a fresh, slightly peppery bite that brightens the salad.
Red onion: Adds a little sharpness and crunch to contrast the creamier elements.
Fresh basil: Roughly chopped, it infuses the salad with sweet, aromatic flavor.
Feta cheese: Crumbled feta gives the salad its signature tangy creaminess.

How to Make Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Dressing

Begin by combining olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, red vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, slightly thick vinaigrette. This dressing is the magic that brings the salad together, so be sure to balance the flavors according to your taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

Next, in a large bowl, gently mix together the three types of beans, drained and rinsed carefully to avoid excess moisture. Add the quartered and sliced English cucumber, sliced cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, sliced Kalamata olives, chopped fresh parsley, small-diced red onion, and roughly chopped fresh basil. Combining these delivers a fantastic medley of textures and colors that’s visually appealing and flavorful.

Step 3: Toss and Marinate

Pour the freshly whisked dressing onto the salad mixture, then toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese last to maintain its creamy texture without breaking down completely. For the best flavor development, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—this step allows all the flavors to harmonize beautifully.

How to Serve Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe

A small white bowl filled with a colorful bean salad showing three main layers: the base layer of white beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas in soft beige, dark red, and light tan; the middle layer of bright yellow bell peppers and sliced green cucumber with a fresh texture; and the top layer of halved red cherry tomatoes, sliced dark purple olives, small bits of white cheese, and finely chopped green herbs. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with lemon halves and a piece of red onion in the background, next to a green and white striped cloth. A larger wooden bowl with more of the salad is blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe by sprinkling a few extra fresh basil leaves or a little more crumbled feta on top just before serving. You can also add a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few whole Kalamata olives to elevate the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a side dish, especially alongside grilled chicken, lamb skewers, or fish for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pita, or warm flatbreads to scoop up all those fabulous flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out bell pepper halves or inside small lettuce leaves as individual cups. Another idea is to layer it with hummus and warm pita bread for a colorful mezze platter that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain the fresh flavors and crisp textures, making it easy to grab for lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

Because this salad has fresh vegetables and cheese, freezing is not recommended. The texture and taste of the salad ingredients would change significantly, especially the beans and fresh herbs.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving to take the chill off without compromising its vibrant flavors.

FAQs

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned in this Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Freshly cooked beans can be an excellent alternative if you have the time. Just be sure to cook them until tender and cool them completely before mixing to keep the salad refreshing and crisp.

What can I substitute for feta cheese if I’m lactose intolerant?

You can swap the feta cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it altogether and add more fresh herbs or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.

How long can I refrigerate the salad before serving?

For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours after assembling. You can make it up to a day in advance, which actually allows the flavors to deepen and blend even more.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It’s a fantastic option for meal prepping, as it holds up well in the fridge and provides a balanced, nutrient-rich dish ready to eat throughout the week.

Can I add protein like chicken or tuna to the salad?

Yes, adding grilled chicken, canned tuna, or even seared halloumi cheese can boost the protein content and turn this salad into a satisfying main meal.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe, it will become a staple in your recipe rotation. Its bright flavors, hearty textures, and ease of preparation make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a quick, healthy meal, this salad hits all the right notes and leaves you feeling nourished and energized. Give it a go—you won’t regret it!

Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need