Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe

Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe

This Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe is a fresh and protein-packed dish, which uses cannellini beans and fresh herbs. It’s a healthy twist on the classic, ready in just 10 minutes.

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Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe Ingredients

  • 2 (15-ounce) cans 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

How To Make Ina Garten White Bean Salad

  1. Prepare the beans and herbs: Drain and rinse the cannellini beans under cold water. Pat dry. Finely chop the red onion, parsley, and basil.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.
  3. Toss the salad: In a large bowl, add the beans, onion, and herbs. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
  4. Finish and serve: Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra herbs and any optional add-ins. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe
Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • What beans work best?
    Cannellini beans are ideal, but Great Northern or navy beans also work well.
  • How to mellow raw red onion:
    Soak chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry before adding.
  • Can I make it ahead of time?
    Yes! This salad holds up well in the fridge for up to 3 days—flavors deepen over time.
  • How to add more flavor:
    Toss in capers, feta cheese, or a handful of halved cherry tomatoes for extra tang and texture.
  • Is this recipe vegan?
    Yes, as long as you skip the feta cheese or use a plant-based version.

What To Serve With White Bean Salad

This light and zesty salad pairs well with:

  • Grilled chicken or salmon
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Crusty bread or pita
  • Mediterranean-style grain bowls
  • Charcuterie boards

How To Store White Bean Salad

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to re-emulsify the dressing.

Do not freeze: This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled from the fridge.

White Bean Salad Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: ~210 kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Potassium: 500mg
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 9g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portion size.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, soak and cook about 1.5 cups of dried beans to replace the canned ones.

Do I have to include mustard in the dressing?
No, but it adds depth and helps emulsify the vinaigrette. You can substitute with a splash of vinegar.

Can I serve this warm?
Yes, but it’s traditionally served chilled or at room temperature.

How do I keep the beans from getting mushy?
Pat them dry after rinsing and toss them gently with the dressing.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.

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Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: SaladsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories

210

kcal

A bright and herb-filled white bean salad tossed in a lemon Dijon vinaigrette—perfect for quick lunches or Mediterranean-style sides.

Ingredients

  • 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

  • 2 tbsp chopped basil

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • Optional Add-Ins:
  • 1/4 cup halved cherry tomatoes

  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 2 tbsp capers

Directions

  • Rinse and drain beans; pat dry. Chop onion and herbs.
  • Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  • Toss beans, onion, and herbs with the dressing.
  • Add optional toppings if using. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.