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Easy White Bean Lemon Herb Salad for One

easy white bean lemon herb salad - featured image

A quick, fresh, and flavorful single-serving salad combining creamy white beans, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (about 165g) cooked or canned cannellini or navy beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or dill (or 2 teaspoons dried mixed Italian herbs)
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • Black pepper, a few grinds, or to taste
  • Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes, 1 tablespoon crumbled feta cheese, ¼ cup cooked quinoa

Instructions

  1. Rinse and drain the canned white beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and remove any canning liquid taste. Mince the garlic finely, chop the parsley and basil (or chosen herbs), and dice the red onion if using.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice and olive oil. Whisk together until emulsified into a light, slightly thickened dressing. Add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Add the drained beans, fresh herbs, and diced onion to the bowl. Gently fold everything together with a spoon or spatula, ensuring the beans are evenly coated with the lemony dressing.
  4. Stir in any optional add-ins like red pepper flakes, crumbled feta, or cooked quinoa if desired.
  5. If possible, let the salad rest at room temperature for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and soften the onion’s sharpness.
  6. Transfer the salad to a plate or bowl and serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Gently fold beans to avoid mashing. Drain beans well to prevent sogginess. Let salad rest for a few minutes if possible to meld flavors. Store dressing separately if making ahead to keep beans firm. Optional add-ins can customize the salad to your taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: white bean salad, lemon herb salad, single serving salad, quick salad, easy salad, healthy salad, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free