Name: Best Double Bean Mediterranean Salad
Prep time: 4 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 can (15.5 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15.5 oz) garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained; 1 ½ cups diced English cucumber (about ½ cucumber); 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half; ½ medium red onion, diced; ½ bell pepper (any color), diced; ¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves; ¼ cup minced parsley; ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, finely minced; ½ tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean salad is quick and easy to make, with bold flavors from fresh lemon, olive oil, and oregano. The combination of beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs provides a hearty yet refreshing meal that’s perfect for warm weather. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep, as the salad holds up well in the fridge for a few days. It’s naturally vegetarian, and with its wholesome ingredients, it’s also rich in protein and fiber.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salad:

1 can (15.5 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15.5 oz) garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1 ½ cups diced English cucumber (about ½ cucumber)
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
½ medium red onion, diced
½ bell pepper (any color), diced
¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
¼ cup minced parsley

For the dressing:

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, finely minced
½ tsp dried oregano
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp ground black pepper

directions

Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, dried oregano, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and minced garlic until well combined. This creates the tangy, herb-packed base for your salad.
Prepare the salad ingredients: Add the rinsed and drained kidney beans and garbanzo beans to the bowl with the dressing. Then add the diced cucumber, sliced cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and diced bell pepper.
Add the herbs: Sprinkle in the chopped fresh basil and minced parsley, which will bring a burst of freshness and flavor to the salad.
Mix and adjust seasoning: Gently mix all the ingredients together, ensuring that everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the beans—use a large spoon or spatula to fold everything together.
Let the salad sit: For the best flavor, allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve: Enjoy the salad as a refreshing side dish or a hearty main. It’s great served on its own or alongside grilled meats or pita bread.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 4 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes (if using canned beans)
Total Time: 12 minutes

Variations

Add Cheese: Toss in some crumbled feta or goat cheese for added creaminess and flavor.
Vegan Option: This salad is already vegan, but you can add tofu cubes or avocado for extra richness.
Extra Veggies: Add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even olives for an extra Mediterranean touch.
Grains: Serve over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili to give the salad some heat.

storage/reheating

This salad stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep. The beans, veggies, and dressing will continue to meld together, enhancing the flavor. It’s best served chilled or at room temperature, and there’s no need to reheat it. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans. Just cook them beforehand and make sure they’re well-drained and cooled before adding them to the salad.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Add some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing to give it a spicy kick.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving. The flavors will deepen after sitting for a while.

Can I use different beans?

Absolutely! You can swap the kidney beans and garbanzo beans for black beans, white beans, or any bean you prefer.

How can I make this salad more filling?

To make the salad more substantial, you can add grains like quinoa or couscous, or toss in some avocado for healthy fats.

Can I substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs?

Yes, you can substitute fresh basil and parsley with dried herbs, but fresh herbs will provide a more vibrant flavor. Use 1 tablespoon of dried herbs in place of fresh.

Can I add a protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpea “croutons” would be great additions to make the salad a full meal.

Conclusion

This Best Double Bean Mediterranean Salad is a perfect combination of fresh, healthy ingredients and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Quick to make and packed with fiber and protein, it’s a great addition to any meal or as a light meal on its own. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein sources, and enjoy the refreshing taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!