Beans are a big part of Mediterranean cooking. Thankfully, they are cheap and easy to use! I keep all sorts of beans in my pantry for when I need to put together something quick an hearty. Here are a few bean recipes that readers love: Mediterranean bean soup with tomato pesto; Greek Fasolada; Vegan Quinoa Chili; Balalela; 3-bean salad; creamy bean dip. Adding to this list, a personal favorite today: kidney bean salad with cilantro and Dijon vinaigrette.
Mediterranean Kidney Bean Salad
This is a classic Mediterranean “peasant salad.” The star ingredient is one humble can of kidney beans, combined with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and fresh cilantro. A light, homemade Dijon vinaigrette with a dash of all-natural sumac brings it all together and provides an irresistibly fresh and zesty flavor!
A Couple Tips
Meal-Prep: to make this kidney bean salad in advance as part of meal-prep, simply mix the beans, chopped veggies and cilantro. Do not add the dressing/vinaigrette. Store the salad and dressing in the fridge in separate glass containers until ready to use. This salad should keep well for 3 to 4 days or so, if stored appropriately. Recipe Variations: You can use a different kind of beans such as white beans, black beans, or even garbanzo beans (chickpeas). And if you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use another fresh herb of your choice like mint, dill, parsley, or basil. You can even use a couple different herbs to your liking.
What to Serve Along?
This salad is great served next to your favorite protein like souvlaki; simple lemon chicken; or salmon. And if you want to make some epic vegan bowls, add this kidney bean salad next to a few falafels and a scoop of creamy homemade hummus.
Watch the Video for How I Make This Easy Kidney Bean Salad
Looking for more recipes to try? 5 from 32 reviews
1 large lime or lemon, juice of 3 tbsp Private Reserve or Early Harvest Greek extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp Dijon mustard ½ tsp fresh garlic paste, or finely chopped garlic 1 tsp sumac Salt and pepper, to taste
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