Name: 5-Minute Cannellini Bean Salad with Herbs and Spices Recipe
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup cannellini beans, canned; 1/2 tsp coriander; 1/2 tsp mint; 1/2 tsp basil; 1/2 tsp cumin; Optional: red pepper flakes to taste; 1/2 onion, chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; Olive oil or coconut oil, for sautéing (about 1-2 tbsp)

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors yet comes together in no time, you’re going to love this 5-Minute Cannellini Bean Salad with Herbs and Spices Recipe. It’s a fantastic mix of creamy cannellini beans paired with fragrant herbs and warming spices, perfectly sautéed with a touch of garlic and onion. Whether you need a quick lunch or a light side dish, this salad brings a vibrant taste and wholesome goodness to your table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with large white beans mixed with small green herb pieces. The beans have a soft, slightly shiny texture and are closely packed inside the bowl, which sits on a beige cloth napkin. The background surface is a white marbled texture. The scene looks bright and clean. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a special role in creating a salad that’s rich in flavor and texture. From tender cannellini beans to aromatic spices, every component adds its own unique touch to the dish.

Cannellini beans: Creamy and hearty, these beans form the base and provide great texture.
Coriander: Adds a bright, citrusy note that lifts the whole salad.
Mint: Offers a refreshing herbal kick that balances the spices beautifully.
Basil: Brings a sweet, aromatic undertone that complements the other herbs.
Cumin: Delivers warm earthiness that ties the flavors together perfectly.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat if you like a little kick.
Olive oil (or coconut oil): Used for sautéing and adds richness and depth.
Onion: Provides subtle sweetness and crunch when sautéed.
Garlic clove: Infuses the salad with a lovely aromatic foundation.

How to Make 5-Minute Cannellini Bean Salad with Herbs and Spices Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing and draining your cannellini beans well to remove excess liquid and canned flavor. Chop your onion finely and mince the garlic clove; these fresh aromatics will form the flavor base and bring a delicious savoriness to the salad.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat a splash of olive oil or coconut oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing just until fragrant and slightly softened—about a minute. This quick step unlocks their natural sweetness and aroma, building a flavor foundation for your beans.

Step 3: Add Cannellini Beans

Stir in the drained cannellini beans, coating them gently in the onion and garlic mix. Let them warm through in the pan for about a minute, allowing the beans to soak up the subtle flavors while maintaining their creamy texture.

Step 4: Mix in the Herbs and Spices

Sprinkle in the coriander, mint, basil, and cumin evenly over the beans. If you want some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes here. Stir thoroughly so every bean is kissed by the fragrant, flavorful blend. This step transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your salad is ready almost instantly! Remove from heat and serve it up as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite Mediterranean-inspired sides for a fresh, wholesome meal bursting with herbs and spices.

How to Serve 5-Minute Cannellini Bean Salad with Herbs and Spices Recipe

The image shows a pile of cooked white beans seasoned with visible dark herbs and small pieces of green onions, all with a light brown toasted texture, spread on a white plate. On the right side of the plate, there is a dollop of creamy white sauce with small green herb pieces mixed in. The surface around the plate has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your salad, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a few torn basil leaves on top just before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors and add a delightful zing.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with crisp tomato and cucumber salad, a handful of olives for a salty contrast, and a dollop of creamy tzatziki for richness. These sides create a balanced plate filled with vibrant colors and complementary tastes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your 5-Minute Cannellini Bean Salad with Herbs and Spices Recipe in small glass jars for a lovely picnic or party appetizer. Or pile it generously on a toasted baguette slice with a smear of ricotta or cream cheese for an easy yet elegant bruschetta twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen as they sit, making the salad even tastier the next day. Just give it a quick stir and maybe a splash of fresh olive oil before enjoying.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because of the delicate texture of the beans and fresh herbs. For the best experience, avoid freezing and plan to consume within a few days.

Reheating

If you prefer a warm dish, gently reheat the salad in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as the beans can become mushy and the herbs lose their vibrancy.

FAQs

Can I use dried cannellini beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just remember to soak and cook dried beans fully before using. Canned beans are convenient, but homemade cooked beans add an even fresher texture.

What can I substitute for the coconut or olive oil?

If you want a different flavor profile, light vegetable oil or avocado oil works well. Coconut oil adds a slight sweetness, while olive oil remains classic and fruity.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for many diets without any modifications needed.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers can be stirred in for extra crunch and freshness. Just add them after cooking the beans so they stay crisp.

How spicy is this salad with red pepper flakes?

It’s lightly spicy if you add just a pinch. You can adjust the heat to your liking, from a gentle warmth to a more noticeable kick by increasing the amount.

Final Thoughts

This 5-Minute Cannellini Bean Salad with Herbs and Spices Recipe is such a joy to make and eat. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and wonderfully adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand. I encourage you to try it soon—it just might become your go-to quick meal or side for any busy day!