Ina Garten’s White Bean Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines creamy cannellini beans with fresh herbs, tangy lemon juice, and rich olive oil. This versatile salad works as a light meal, a side dish, or even as a topping for crostini.

What is Ina Garten White Bean Salad?

White Bean Salad is a refreshing dish made with tender white beans, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing. Ina Garten’s version emphasizes simplicity and high-quality ingredients to create a flavorful and healthy salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten White Bean Salad

Quick and easy: It takes just 10 minutes to prepare.
Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein and fiber from white beans.
Versatile: Works as a side dish, light main course, or appetizer.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or protein to make it your own.
Make-ahead friendly: It tastes even better after sitting for a few hours.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten White Bean Salad

2 (15-ounce) cans of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional Add-Ins:

1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons capers

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten White Bean Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse and drain beans: Drain the cannellini beans and rinse under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Chop the herbs and onion: Finely chop the parsley, basil, and red onion.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Whisk the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cannellini beans, red onion, parsley, and basil.
Add the dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the beans evenly.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer to a serving dish: Garnish with additional herbs if desired.
Serve chilled or at room temperature: Enjoy as a light meal or side dish.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten White Bean Salad

Grilled chicken or fish: Pair with protein for a complete meal.
Crusty bread: Serve with toasted baguette slices for a light lunch.
Cheese boards: Include on a charcuterie board for added variety.
Leafy greens: Toss with arugula or spinach for a heartier salad.
Pasta dishes: Serve alongside pasta for a balanced meal.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten White Bean Salad

Use high-quality beans: Opt for canned cannellini beans with a firm texture and mild flavor.
Let it sit: Allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Customize the herbs: Swap parsley and basil with cilantro or dill for a different flavor profile.
Adjust the seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Serve fresh: This salad tastes best when freshly made or within a day.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten White Bean Salad

Add protein: Include grilled shrimp, chicken, or canned tuna for a complete meal.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Use different beans: Try Great Northern beans or chickpeas for a twist.
Add crunch: Toss in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for texture.
Include roasted vegetables: Mix in roasted zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten White Bean Salad

Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serve chilled: Enjoy straight from the fridge or bring to room temperature before serving.
Do not freeze: The texture of the beans and dressing will change when frozen.

FAQs

Can I make White Bean Salad ahead of time?

Yes, White Bean Salad can be made up to 1 day in advance. The flavors improve as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?

Yes, you can use dried beans. Soak them overnight, then cook until tender before using them in the recipe.

What other herbs can I use in this salad?

You can substitute parsley and basil with cilantro, dill, or chives for a different flavor profile.

Is White Bean Salad served warm or cold?

White Bean Salad is typically served chilled or at room temperature, making it a refreshing and light dish.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s White Bean Salad is a simple, healthy, and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.

Try it today for a delicious and versatile addition to your recipe collection!

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