Name: Tabbouleh White Bean Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 800g / 24 oz (2 cans) white beans (cannellini, navy/haricot, or butter beans), drained; 4 tomatoes, cut into 1.25cm / 1/2″ pieces; 3 cucumbers (or 1 1/2 long English/Telegraph cucumbers), cut into 1.25cm / 1/2″ pieces; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup parsley, roughly chopped (1 large bunch); 1/3 cup mint, roughly chopped; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 small garlic clove, minced using a garlic press; 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp kosher/cooking salt (or 1/4 tsp table salt); 1/2 tsp black pepper

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 22 reviews

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If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant, and utterly satisfying salad that bursts with Mediterranean charm, the Tabbouleh White Bean Salad is your new best friend in the kitchen. This delightful dish combines the bright zing of lemony dressing with hearty white beans, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs, making it a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a side for your dinner, or a potluck winner, this salad delivers freshness and comfort all in one bowl.

Tabbouleh White Bean Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients for this salad is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the fresh, crisp, and creamy symphony of flavors that define the Tabbouleh White Bean Salad. From creamy beans to zesty lemon and bright herbs, every component adds depth and vibrancy to the dish.

White beans (800g / 24 oz / 2 cans): These provide a creamy, protein-packed base that elevates the salad to a satisfying meal.
Tomatoes (4, cut into 1.25cm pieces): Juicy and sweet, they add that essential burst of summer flavor and color.
Cucumbers (3 or 1 1/2 long English): Their refreshing crunch balances the softness of the beans perfectly.
Red onion (1/2, finely chopped): Just a hint of sharpness to cut through the mellow beans and herbs.
Parsley (1 cup, roughly chopped): The star herb in tabbouleh, bringing a fresh, slightly peppery note.
Mint (1/3 cup, roughly chopped): Adds a cooling brightness that lifts the entire salad.
Lemon juice (2 tbsp): The citrusy punch that brightens every bite.
Extra virgin olive oil (4 tbsp): Rich and smooth, it binds the flavors and adds lusciousness.
Garlic clove (1 small, minced): Tiny but mighty, it brings an aromatic depth without overpowering.
Dijon mustard (1/2 tsp): A subtle tang that enhances the dressing’s complexity.
Salt (1/2 tsp kosher or cooking salt): Essential for seasoning and amplifying all the fresh ingredients.
Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds just the right amount of warmth and subtle heat.

How to Make Tabbouleh White Bean Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Dressing

Begin by combining the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a jar. Close the lid tightly and give it a vigorous shake until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth, tangy blend. This dressing is the heart of your Tabbouleh White Bean Salad—it brings brightness and richness that elevate every single ingredient.

Step 2: Chop and Combine the Salad Ingredients

Chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, and finely dice the red onion to uniform pieces so every forkful is a harmonious mix of flavors. Toss them together with the drained white beans in a large bowl. Add the roughly chopped parsley and mint—herbs that pack a fresh, vibrant punch critical to any tabbouleh-style dish.

Step 3: Dress and Toss the Salad

Drizzle most of the lemon dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly. You want every bean and vegetable piece lightly coated to soak up that bright lemon and herb magic. If you have some dressing left over, save it for drizzling at the table or another use.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your perfectly tossed Tabbouleh White Bean Salad to a serving bowl, admire those gorgeous colors, and get ready to dig in. This salad shines best fresh but also benefits from a little bench time for the flavors to mingle even more.

How to Serve Tabbouleh White Bean Salad

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few extra fresh parsley or mint leaves on top just before serving for that extra pop of aroma and color. A light dusting of lemon zest or a few whole white beans artfully placed adds an inviting touch, making your salad undeniable to the eye and nose.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like lamb or chicken, or alongside a spread of mezze dishes such as hummus, baba ganoush, or warm pita bread. It’s a fantastic companion to Mediterranean-inspired meals and adds a refreshing contrast to richer, heavier dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve portions of Tabbouleh White Bean Salad inside hollowed-out tomatoes or cucumber cups. You can also spread it over toasted rustic bread as a healthy, bright appetizer. In picnic settings, pack it in mason jars layered with a little extra dressing at the bottom to keep everything fresh until ready to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Tabbouleh White Bean Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It holds well for up to 2 days, though the salad is at its peak freshness the first day. The herbs and cucumber keep their crunch, while the beans continue to soak up the lovely flavors of the dressing.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the delicate herbs and fresh vegetables, which can become mushy after thawing. For longer storage, consider freezing the beans separately without dressing and adding chopped veggies and dressing after defrosting.

Reheating

Since this salad is served cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Simply take it out of the fridge a bit before serving to allow the flavors to open up nicely, or add a fresh drizzle of lemon and olive oil if needed.

FAQs

Can I use different kinds of white beans for the salad?

Absolutely! Cannellini, navy, haricot, or butter beans all work beautifully. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to keep the salad fresh and light.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the Tabbouleh White Bean Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

The salad stays fresh for up to 2 days refrigerated in an airtight container. For best flavor and texture, enjoy it as promptly as possible after making.

Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?

Of course! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or even some crumbled feta for extra flavor. The base salad is very versatile and welcomes your personal twists.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s an excellent option for meal prep, especially if you keep the dressing separate until just before eating to maintain the crunch of the cucumber and freshness of the herbs.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Tabbouleh White Bean Salad, it will quickly become a staple in your recipe repertoire—fresh, nutritious, and packed with personality. It’s perfect for any season and any occasion, delivering a delightful crunch, creamy beans, and zesty dressing that will leave you smiling with every bite. So grab those simple ingredients and get tossed into this refreshing, colorful salad adventure.

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