Delicious Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Lemon

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Imagine biting into a Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon—an explosion of flavors dances on your taste buds. The creamy white beans mingle with the tangy feta, while the zesty preserved lemon adds an irresistible citrus kick that makes your mouth water just thinking about it.

This salad isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration. I remember the first time I made this vibrant salad for a summer picnic. Friends gathered around, and as soon as they took a bite, their eyes widened in delight. We laughed, enjoyed the sunshine, and devoured the entire bowl in minutes. Trust me, you’ll want to whip this up for your next gathering!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Mediterranean White Bean Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings
  • The combination of creamy feta and zesty preserved lemon creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying
  • Its colorful presentation adds vibrancy to any table setting, impressing your guests effortlessly
  • Enjoy it as a versatile side dish or light main course that complements various cuisines

Ingredients for Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Canned White Beans: Choose high-quality cannellini or navy beans for creaminess; rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
  • Feta Cheese: Opt for crumbly feta for texture; the brininess enhances the salad’s flavor perfectly.
  • Preserved Lemons: These add a unique tartness; if unavailable, use fresh lemons but adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering sourness.
  • Red Onion: Thinly sliced, they provide crunch and bite; soaking them briefly in water can soften their sharpness.
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness; opt for flat-leaf varieties for a stronger flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness; it ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon

How to Make Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon

Start by preparing your ingredients: Drain and rinse those canned white beans until they’re sparkling clean. This step not only removes excess sodium but also lets their lovely creaminess shine through when you toss them.

Next up is chopping! Finely slice your red onion and fresh parsley. If you want to tone down the onion’s sharpness (who needs tears at dinner?), soak those slices in cold water for about ten minutes before draining.

Now let’s tackle the preserved lemons! If you’re using them, chop them finely—just be careful of those seeds! The preserved lemons bring an amazing punch of flavor that will make everyone wonder what your secret ingredient is.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white beans, feta cheese crumbles, red onion, chopped parsley, and diced preserved lemon. Gently fold these ingredients together with care so that you don’t mash those beautiful beans into oblivion.

Drizzle in some extra virgin olive oil along with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything another gentle toss until everything is well-coated in that luscious dressing. Don’t be shy—taste it! Adjust seasoning if needed because every great chef knows that tasting is half the battle.

Finally, let this gorgeous salad sit in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes before serving—it’s like letting it marinate for maximum flavor impact! When you’re ready to serve this colorful masterpiece, plate it up and watch as everyone’s eyes light up at its vibrant hues!

Enjoy every bite of your Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon and don’t forget to share (or not). After all, some things are too good to share!

You Must Know

  • This Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon is not only bursting with flavor but also makes for a delightful meal prep option
  • It’s colorful, nutritious, and can jazz up any dinner table
  • Perfect for picnics or a quick lunch at your desk!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make this Mediterranean White Bean Salad shine, start by rinsing and draining the beans. While they dry, chop fresh veggies and prepare the dressing. Combine everything just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon by adding olives, cherry tomatoes, or even grilled chicken. Swap feta for goat cheese if you prefer a creamier texture. The options are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, keep in mind that the salad is best enjoyed cold; simply let it come to room temperature before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To enhance the flavors of your Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon, use high-quality olive oil for dressing
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate taste significantly
  • Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for perfect results

Sharing a friend’s rave review after I made this salad for our summer BBQ always brings back fond memories—it was gone in minutes! Everyone loved how refreshing it was on a hot day.

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon?

To prepare Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon, gather the following ingredients: cooked white beans (like cannellini or navy beans), crumbled feta cheese, preserved lemon, fresh parsley, red onion, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This combination offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that create a refreshing salad perfect for any meal or occasion.

How do I make Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon?

Making Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon is simple. Start by rinsing and draining the white beans. In a large bowl, combine the beans with diced preserved lemon, chopped parsley, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine all ingredients well and enjoy this vibrant salad chilled or at room temperature.

Can I customize my Mediterranean White Bean Salad?

Absolutely! You can customize your Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon by adding other ingredients such as cucumber, bell peppers, or artichokes for extra crunch. You may also substitute feta with goat cheese or omit it for a vegan version. Feel free to experiment with herbs like mint or basil to enhance the flavor profile according to your taste preferences.

How long will the salad last in the fridge?

Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon can last in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container. The flavors tend to meld together over time, making it even tastier! However, if you include delicate ingredients like tomatoes or cucumbers, consider adding them fresh just before serving to maintain their texture.

Conclusion for Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon:

In summary, Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal. With its bright flavors and easy preparation method, it’s perfect as a side dish or light lunch. Customize it to suit your palate and enjoy this healthy option regularly. Don’t hesitate to prepare this refreshing salad for gatherings or casual meals at home!

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Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon


  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta & Preserved Lemon is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together creamy white beans, tangy feta cheese, and zesty preserved lemons. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a light lunch or a colorful side for your next gathering. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 preserved lemon, diced (or 1 fresh lemon, juiced)
  • 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the cannellini beans thoroughly.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the beans, feta cheese, preserved lemon, red onion, and parsley.
  3. Drizzle in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper; gently toss to combine.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No cooking required
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: - For added crunch, consider incorporating diced cucumbers or bell peppers. - Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier texture. - Use high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.

Tags:

easy recipes / feta cheese / healthy recipes / Mediterranean salad / preserved lemon / summer salad / vegetarian dish / white beans

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