Lemony White Bean Salad (simple And Easy!) Recipe

I discovered this vibrant lemony white bean salad that jumps off the plate with its refreshing, zesty dressing and delicate feta crumble. Perfect for my simple fresh meals, it unites family and friends as we savor its harmonious blend of citrus, garlic, and a touch of spicy red pepper.

I’ve been experimenting with bean recipes side dishes for a while now so when I came across this Lemony White Bean Salad I had to share it. I was amazed by how quickly I assembled it using simple ingredients I always have on hand.

I started with 2 cans of drained and rinsed white beans, and then whisked together a tangy dressing using 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, juice from 2 lemons, and the zest of 1 lemon. Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and finish off with 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley.

I seasoned it with salt and pepper to taste. Its fresh, zesty flavor reminded me of one of those healthy dinner with beans dinners that feels both light and filling.

This salad is perfect if you’ve been looking for a simple, fresh meal.

Why I Like this Recipe

I love this recipe becuz it’s super simple yet tastes amazingly fresh. I really dig how the lemon juice and zest give the salad a tangy kick that makes the beans pop. I also like how the creamy white beans mix with salty feta, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, letting it chill in the fridge really brings all the ingredients together so every bite is full of flavor.

Ingredients

• White Beans: high in fiber and protein, adding healthy carbs and texture.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: provides rich healthy fats and antioxidants, making salad smooth and tasty.
• Lemon Juice & Zest: gives a sour tang, lots of vitamin C, and fresh zing.
• Garlic: bursting with flavor, it boosts the taste and may help immunity.
• Feta Cheese: creamy, tangy, and offers protein plus calcium for strength.
• Red Pepper Flakes: add a light heat, giving a kick without overpowering.
• Fresh Parsley: loads vitamins and looks vibrant, enhancing the salad presentation.
• Salt & Pepper: essential seasonings to bring together and heighten all flavors.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make this

1. Drain and rinse the white beans and put them into a large mixing bowl.

2. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, juice from 2 lemons, and the zest from 1 lemon.

3. Add the minced garlic to the lemon and oil mixture and mix it all together.

4. Pour the dressing over the white beans and toss them so every bean is covered.

5. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper then stir gently to combine.

6. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese making sure it’s evenly distributed.

7. Add the chopped fresh parsley and give it another light mix.

8. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the flavors get a chance to blend.

9. Give the salad a final stir before serving.

10. Enjoy your super simple and fresh Lemony White Bean Salad as a side dish or light meal!

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl for the white beans and dressing to come together
2. Small mixing bowl to whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest
3. Whisk for blending the dressing nicely
4. Measuring cups and spoons to get the correct amounts for olive oil and other seasonings
5. Citrus juicer (or your hand if need be) to squeeze the lemons
6. Zester or a grater to get the lemon zest
7. Garlic press or a small knife to mince the garlic if it isn’t pre-minced
8. Spatula or large spoon for tossing and folding in the feta and parsley
9. A cover, like plastic wrap, to chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes
10. A refrigerator to let the flavors blend before serving

FAQ

Lemony White Bean Salad (simple And Easy!) Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you cant find white beans, cannellini beans or even butter beans would work just as well
• Instead of extra virgin olive oil, you can try using avocado oil or sunflower oil if youre looking for a lighter flavor
• If feta cheese isnt your thing or you need a dairy free option, try using crumbled goat cheese or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast
• For red pepper flakes, if you dont have any handy, a pinch of cayenne pepper will do fine just be careful with the amount

Pro Tips

1. Try letting the salad chill for a couple of hours if you have the time. This really helps the flavors mix together better than just the minimum 30 minutes.
2. Always taste it before serving and adjust the salt and pepper. Sometimes a little extra seasoning can bring out the flavors even more.
3. If you want extra crunch and flavor, toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top right before eating.
4. For a quicker flavor boost, consider warming the lemon and olive oil dressing slightly before mixing it with the beans so the garlic and zest mellow out a bit.