Description
This Vibrant Mediterranean Bean Salad with Feta is a refreshing and colorful mix of beans, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. Perfect as a light main course or a flavorful side dish, this salad is easy to prepare, nutritious, and packed with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans and Vegetables
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) black olives, sliced
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
Cheese and Herbs
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables and Beans: Begin by rinsing and draining the chickpeas and kidney beans thoroughly in a colander to remove excess liquid. Dice the cucumber and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed chickpeas, kidney beans, sliced black olives, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion. Mix gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well emulsified and combined. This dressing provides the Mediterranean tangy and herby flavor that complements the salad.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently to ensure all components are well coated with the dressing, bringing all the flavors together.
- Add Feta and Parsley: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the salad. Toss lightly to mix without breaking up the feta too much, maintaining its creamy texture and bright flavor.
- Chill and Marinate: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the salad to chill and the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a perfect light main dish or a refreshing side to grilled meats or other Mediterranean dishes.
Notes
- This salad benefits from resting time; chilling for longer than 30 minutes intensifies the flavors.
- For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Use fresh parsley for the best flavor; Italian flat-leaf parsley is recommended.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Ensure beans are thoroughly rinsed and drained to reduce sodium and excess liquid in the salad.
