Mediterranean White Bean Salad is bright, fresh, and simple to make. Tender cannellini beans meet crisp vegetables, a tangy garlic vinaigrette, and creamy avocado for a satisfying salad you can have ready in under 20 minutes. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or salmon, or stands on its own as a hearty vegetarian lunch. Keep canned beans on hand and you’ll be ready to toss this together any night of the week.
Ingredient Notes
All measurements and the full ingredient list are available in the recipe card below.
- Canned white beans. Cannellini beans work best for a creamy texture.
- Canned chickpeas. Optional — you can substitute one can of chickpeas for extra texture or simply use more cannellini beans.
- Celery. Adds crunch and freshness.
- Red onion. Provides a sharp bite and color contrast.
- Cucumber. Cool and crisp, it lightens the salad.
- Avocado. Adds rich creaminess.
- Feta or goat cheese. A little tang balances the dressing.
- Fresh herbs. I like dill and parsley; cilantro or basil also pair well.
White Bean Salad Dressing
There are many dressings that work with this scoopable salad, but a creamy garlic vinaigrette is my favorite — it adds the right amount of tang. The recipe card below includes exact measurements. The dressing ingredients I use are:
- Mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt. Either will make the dressing creamy.
- Whole grain or Dijon mustard. Use your preferred mustard for depth of flavor.
- Garlic cloves. Minced for a bright bite.
- Rice vinegar. Adds mild acidity; apple cider vinegar works too.
- Salt and pepper. To taste.
Let’s Make White Bean Salad
Ready to make it? Below is a simple walkthrough; full details are in the printable recipe card at the bottom.
- Step One. Whisk the extra virgin olive oil, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, maple syrup (optional), salt, and pepper together in a small bowl until combined.
- Step Two. In a large bowl, combine drained and rinsed white beans with diced red bell pepper, cucumber, celery, diced red onion, chopped parsley, and dill (or other herbs).
- Step Three. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss so everything is evenly coated. Fold in diced avocado and crumble goat or feta cheese over the top. Serve immediately.
What to Serve with a White Bean Salad
This salad pairs well with grilled proteins like chicken or salmon, and it’s ideal for scooping with sturdy tortilla chips or pita. It also makes a bright side dish for summer gatherings or a simple packed lunch.
Other Salads To Try
Appetizers
Burrata Tomato Salad
Salads
Salmon Cobb Salad
Side Dishes
Deviled Egg Potato Salad
Side Dishes
Beetroot and Feta Salad
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Mediterranean White Bean Salad
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Equipment
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large bowl for serving
Ingredients
White Bean Salad
- 2 15 oz cans white cannellini beans, drained & rinsed, or sub one can of garbanzo beans
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- ½ small red onion, diced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ bunch fresh dill, chopped
- 1 avocado, pitted and diced
- ¼ cup goat or feta cheese, crumbled
Garlic Dressing
- 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup mayonnaise, or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt & pepper
- ½ tsp maple syrup, optional, to soften the tang
Instructions
Garlic Dressing
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Whisk the olive oil, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, maple syrup (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl until combined.
White Bean Salad
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Combine the white beans, diced bell pepper, cucumber, celery, red onion, parsley, and dill in a large bowl.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat. Fold in avocado and sprinkle with crumbled goat or feta cheese. Serve right away.
Notes
- Taste the dressing before serving. Add a little maple syrup or honey if you prefer a milder tang.
- Storage. Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as the dressing can settle. Do not freeze.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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