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Mediterranean Bean Salad for Quick and Flavorful Meals
Emily

Mediterranean Bean Salad for Quick and Flavorful Meals

This vibrant and satisfying Mediterranean Bean Salad brings together protein-packed red kidney beans and chickpeas with crisp vegetables and zesty lemon-herb dressing. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it's a versatile dish for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Kidney Beans: 2 cans (15 ounces each), or 3 cups cooked, rinse and drain
  • Chickpeas: 1 can (15 ounces), or 1 ½ cups cooked, choose low-sodium if available
  • Red Onion: 1 small, diced (about 1 cup), or use shallots for milder flavor
  • Celery: 2 stalks, sliced and chopped (about ¾ cup)
  • Cucumber: 1 medium, peeled, seeded, and diced, firm and not overripe
  • Parsley: ¾ cup chopped fresh
  • Dill or Mint: 2 tablespoons chopped
  • Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
  • Olive oil (for vinaigrette)
  • Red wine vinegar substitute (e.g., balsamic or apple cider vinegar): 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic Clove: 1 small, minced
  • Salt: to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper: to taste

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the rinsed kidney beans, chickpeas, diced red onion, celery, cucumber, and chopped parsley and dill/mint.
  2. In a small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon vinegar substitute, and 1 clove of minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
  4. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
  5. Adjust seasoning if desired before serving.

Notes

For a creamier texture, add a spoonful of tahini or Greek yogurt to the dressing.
This salad can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Feel free to add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for an extra pop of color and flavor.