Imagine a sun-drenched Italian countryside, where fresh ingredients dance together in a symphony of flavors – that's exactly what this Tuscan Cannellini Bean Salad delivers! In just 15 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering dish that's not only incredibly easy to prepare but will make you feel like you've been transported to the heart of Italy. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a stunning side dish, or a healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Canned cannellini beans
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onion
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: canned cannellini beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Open the can of cannellini beans and drain them thoroughly. Rinse the beans under cold water to remove any excess sodium and preservatives, then set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl with the cannellini beans.
- Peel the red onion and slice it thinly. You can use a mandoline for even slices if you have one. Add the sliced red onion to the mixing bowl.
- Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces and add them to the bowl with the other ingredients.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Start with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, adjusting to taste as needed.
- Pour the olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together until the beans, tomatoes, onions, and basil are well coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, then adjust according to your preference.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can be done at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you prefer a chilled salad.
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. Taste one last time and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Tuscan Cannellini Bean Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar for the most authentic flavor.
- Bean Preparation: Always rinse canned beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve texture.
- Maximize Flavor: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to marinate and develop deeper flavors.
- Temperature Matters: This salad can be served at room temperature or chilled, making it perfect for meal prep and picnics.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh basil leaves and slice them just before adding to the salad to preserve their vibrant flavor and aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
