Greek Bean Salad

Greek Bean Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that perfectly captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors. This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a quick lunch, a side at dinner, or a picnic treat. With colorful ingredients packed with protein and fresh herbs, it’s a dish that appeals to a variety of palates and dietary preferences.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 250
• Protein: 10 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: 28 grams per serving
• Fat: 13 grams per serving
• Fiber: 7 grams per serving
• Sugar: 2 grams per serving
• Sodium: 320 mg per serving

Why Make This Greek Bean Salad

This Greek Bean Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients that come together to create a light, wholesome, and satisfying meal. It’s an excellent source of plant-based protein thanks to the chickpeas and kidney beans, and it’s loaded with vitamins from the colorful vegetables. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano creates a refreshing dressing that enhances the natural flavors of the veggies. Plus, it’s quick to assemble, and you can enjoy it immediately or let it marinate for deeper flavors.

How to Make Greek Bean Salad

Making Greek Bean Salad is straightforward and requires no cooking, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Follow these steps for a deliciously fresh dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, kidney beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and parsley. This mix of ingredients brings vibrant colors and textures to your salad.

Step 2: Mixing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a zesty flavor that ties the salad together beautifully.

Step 3: Combining

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Make sure that every ingredient is coated with the dressing to maximize flavor in each bite.

Step 4: Marinating

Let the salad marinate for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together more beautifully.

Step 5: Serving

Serve chilled or at room temperature. The salad can be enjoyed right away, but the flavors become even better after marinating longer.

How to Serve Greek Bean Salad

Greek Bean Salad can be served as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. It’s also perfect as a light lunch on its own, perhaps accompanied by some crusty bread or pita. For added protein, consider topping it with grilled chicken or feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

How to Store Greek Bean Salad

This salad stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will intensify over time, making it a delicious option for meal prep. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving again.

Expert Tips for Perfect Greek Bean Salad

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add better texture.
• Customize your beans: You can swap out kidney beans for black beans or white beans based on your preference.
• Add extras: Try incorporating olives or feta cheese for additional flavor.
• Dairy-free option: Leave out the cheese for a vegan-friendly salad that everyone can enjoy.
• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to use fresh herbs like dill or mint for a different flavor profile.

Delicious Variations

• Mediterranean Quinoa Greek Bean Salad: Add cooked quinoa for an extra boost of protein.
• Spicy Greek Bean Salad: Toss in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Citrus Twist: Substitute lime juice for lemon for a tangy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use dried beans instead of canned? Yes, you can use dried beans. Just make sure to soak and cook them before adding to the salad.
• How long can I keep the salad in the fridge? The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
• Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! It gets better as it sits, so make it a day in advance for full flavor.
• What is a good substitute for parsley? Fresh cilantro or mint can be great alternatives for an interesting flavor.
• Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients used in this salad are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Greek Bean Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that can brighten any meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with healthy ingredients, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet lunch at home, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try, and you’ll discover a new favorite that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Enjoy!

Greek Bean Salad

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• Author: mia-harper
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A vibrant and nutritious salad that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors, packed with protein and fresh herbs, making it perfect for lunch or as a side dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, kidney beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine, ensuring every ingredient is coated.
4. Let the salad marinate for at least 10 minutes before serving.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg