White Bean, Tomato And Basil Salad *
A vibrant and hearty white bean salad with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil, perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings, offering a balance of creamy beans and bright flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the beans in water to cover overnight.
- Drain the soaked beans and cover with fresh water.
- Simmer the beans until tender, about 1 hour or more, adding salt after the first 30 minutes.
- Drain the beans and place them in a serving bowl.
- Add the olive oil and chopped red onion to the beans and toss thoroughly while still hot.
- Just before serving, add chopped tomatoes and basil leaves.
- Toss again and adjust seasoning as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using canned white beans instead of dried. However, if you prefer dried beans, ensure they're soaked adequately to reduce cooking time. Fresh basil is key for flavor; if unavailable, you can substitute with a smaller amount of dried basil. Adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the dish's brightness.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is best served at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a hearty side to Mediterranean recipes. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or as a topping for crostini. It also complements dishes like the Tomato Potato Salad for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld even further as it sits. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Bean, Tomato And Basil Salad * contains roughly 437 calories, with 14g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1007mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day ahead. Just keep the beans and dressing separate from the tomatoes and basil until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
What type of white beans should I use?
Great Northern beans or cannellini beans work best for this recipe due to their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors. However, any dried white beans will suffice.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This salad is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for plant-based diets, packed with protein from the beans and fresh flavors from the vegetables.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).