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Italian White Bean Salad Recipe

Italian White Bean Salad Recipe – Quick, Fresh, and Flavorful

This Italian White Bean Salad Recipe is a quick and flavorful no-cook option, combining creamy beans, zesty tomatoes, and vibrant herbs.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 can Cannellini Beans Provides a creamy base and protein; substitute with other white beans if needed.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Adds sweetness and freshness; use ripe and flavorful tomatoes for best results.
  • 1/2 cup Green Olives (Nocellara or Castelvetrano) Offers a buttery, savory pop; substitute with any mild olives if unavailable.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Contributes sharpness; can swap with scallions for a milder flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Shavings Introduces a nutty finish and texture; omit for a vegan version.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Provides freshness and aroma; fresh herbs are essential for the salsa verde.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Basil Provides freshness and aroma; fresh herbs are essential for the salsa verde.
  • 1 tablespoon Capers Adds brininess to the dressing; omit if not desired or replace with olives.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Offers depth of flavor; use fresh for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Anchovy Paste Infuses umami; substitute with a dash of soy sauce or miso for a vegan option.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Gives a hint of heat; adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Enhances flavor profile; freshly ground is best.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Vital for dressing; use high-quality for optimal flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Adds acidity and balance; apple cider vinegar can be substituted.
Optional Add-ons
  • 1 can Albacore Tuna Provides protein and heartiness; omit for a vegetarian dish.
  • 1 loaf Crusty Bread Complements the salad and makes a fulfilling meal.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Salsa Verde: In a small mixing bowl, combine chopped fresh parsley, basil, capers, minced garlic, and anchovy paste (or soy sauce for a vegan version). Drizzle in high-quality extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, then sprinkle in red pepper flakes and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until well blended, creating a zesty dressing.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently toss together the creamy cannellini beans, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced green olives, and finely chopped red onion. Add a pinch of kosher salt to enhance the flavors and mix gently to avoid mashing the beans.
  3. Dress Salad: Carefully pour the vibrant salsa verde over the salad mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss the salad to incorporate the dressing, ensuring the beans remain intact.
  4. Finish and Serve: Once fully combined, add delicate shavings of Parmesan cheese on top of the salad. If incorporating tuna, gently fold it in now. Serve the salad with crusty bread on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs for the best flavor. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance taste.

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