Tuscan Bean Salad
Creamy cannellini beans, crisp celery, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon vinaigrette come together in this simple Tuscan Bean Salad. Naturally salt-free and inspired by the fresh flavors of the Italian countryside, it’s a hearty side dish that’s just as delicious for lunch, picnics, or meal prep.
Serves: 6 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh Mediterranean flavors that get even better as they sit.
Naturally salt-free and rich in plant-based protein and fiber.
Perfect for meal prep, picnics, and summer gatherings.
Simple ingredients with bright, satisfying flavor.
Delicious as a side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients
For the Salad
2 (15-ounce) cans no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 small shallot, finely minced
¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Lemon Herb Vinaigrette
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, finely grated
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Rinse and drain the cannellini beans well and place them in a large serving bowl.
Add the shallot, parsley, and basil.
2. Make the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the Salad
Pour the vinaigrette over the bean mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
4. Let the Flavors Develop
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Serve
Gently stir once more before serving. If desired, garnish with a little additional chopped parsley and a few grinds of black pepper.
Cook’s Note
Cannellini beans have a creamy texture that makes them ideal for this salad, but no-salt-added Great Northern beans work well, too.
Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, as it’s one of the primary flavors in the vinaigrette.
This salad tastes even better after it has chilled for a few hours, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
For extra crunch, stir in 1 finely diced celery stalk just before serving.
Serve chilled or let the salad sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. This salad is not recommended for freezing.
Complete the Meal. Pair this salad with our Balsamic Garlic Chicken