Lemony White Bean Salad

Quick and easy salads are my go-to in hot weather.  Try this refreshing lemony white bean salad. White beans are a powerhouse of protein and fiber. It serves 3-4 people.

Lemony White Bean Salad

Ingredients

• Cooked white beans such as Cannellini or Great Northern, or one 15.5 oz canned white beans

• ¼ cup of onion of your choice (yellow, red or scallions), finely chopped

• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves or basil, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup olives (green, black or Kalamata), pitted and halved; I use a combination of black and green olives

• 2 oz feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing

• 1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, grated

• pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

• If using canned beans, drain and rinse the beans and set aside in a strainer.

• Combine the dressing ingredients together in a bowl. Whisk together and set aside.

• In a large bowl add the beans, onion, tomatoes, parsley or basil and toss.

• Pour the dressing on top and toss together.

• Add the feta and olives and toss together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

• Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl and let sit for at least an hour so that the flavors can meld.

Serve this salad with crusty bread, on top of salad greens, or as a side-dish with grilled food.  You could add diced cucumber and/or bell pepper if you'd like. Enjoy!