Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe

If you love fresh, simple and healthy salads, you will enjoy this Ina Garten white bean salad recipe. It is one of the easiest salads you can make at home. It uses soft white beans mixed with bright herbs, tasty vegetables and a light lemon dressing.

This salad feels fresh, clean and full of flavor. You only need a few simple ingredients to make it. Ina Garten creates recipes that look fancy but are very easy to prepare. This one is perfect for busy days or quick lunches.

In this post, I will show you how to make Ina Garten white bean salad, what ingredients you need and the best tips to get perfect results. Enjoy this tasty Ina Garten white bean salad recipe anytime.

My Experience With This Recipe

I tried this Ina Garten white bean salad recipe on a warm afternoon, and it tasted amazing. The salad felt light but still filling. The lemon dressing made everything taste bright and fresh.

The beans were soft and the vegetables added crunch. I loved how easy it was to put together. It took only a few minutes and the flavors blended so well. I served it with grilled chicken and my family enjoyed every bite. This recipe is now one of my favorite quick salads.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Ina Garten White Bean Salad
• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Total Time: 10 mins
• Course: Salad
• Cuisine: American / Mediterranean
• Calories: 220 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Citrus juicer (optional)

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe

• 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Rinse the White Beans

Drain canned beans. Rinse them under cool water until clean and ready.

2. Chop the Vegetables

Cut onion, celery, tomatoes and parsley into small pieces for easy mixing.

3. Add Beans to the Bowl

Place rinsed beans into a large mixing bowl. Spread them evenly inside.

4. Add Fresh Vegetables

Add onion, celery, tomatoes, and parsley. Mix gently to keep beans whole.

5. Make the Dressing

Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and bright.

6. Add Lemon Zest

Add lemon zest for stronger citrus flavor. This step is optional but tasty.

7. Pour Dressing on Salad

Pour the lemon dressing over the salad. Coat everything evenly and gently.

8. Mix the Salad

Stir softly with a spoon. Try not to break the beans while mixing.

9. Taste and Adjust

Taste salad and add extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

10. Chill the Salad

Place salad in fridge for 15 minutes. This helps flavors blend nicely.

11. Serve Fresh

Serve the white bean salad cold or at room temperature.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe

• Use canned beans for easy and fast prep.
• Rinse beans well to remove extra starch.
• Chop vegetables finely for even mixing.
• Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
• Chill the salad before serving for better taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing and breaking the beans.
• Using old lemon juice or bottled juice.
• Adding dressing without whisking it first.
• Leaving beans too wet after rinsing.
• Using too much salt without tasting.

Serving Suggestions

This Ina Garten white bean salad tastes great alone or with many meals. You can enjoy it as a light lunch, side dish or picnic salad. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, pasta or sandwiches.

Serve it at barbecues, potlucks or family dinners. You can also serve it with warm bread for a simple and tasty meal. The fresh lemon flavor makes it perfect for warm weather days.

Variations You Can Try

• Add feta cheese for creamy flavor.
• Use basil instead of parsley for sweet taste.
• Add cucumbers for extra crunch.
• Add olives for Mediterranean flavor.
• Mix in avocado for soft and rich texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store salad in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for 3 days.
• Do not freeze the salad.
• Stir before serving to refresh flavor.
• Add extra lemon juice if salad dries out.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220 kcal
Protein	9 g
Fat	7 g
Carbs	32 g
Fiber	9 g
Sodium	320 mg
Sugar	3 g

Health Benefits

White beans are rich in fiber and plant protein. They help keep you full and support healthy digestion. The salad includes olive oil, which supports heart health.

Lemon juice adds vitamin C and a fresh taste. The vegetables give extra vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. This salad is healthy, light and perfect for everyday meals.

FAQs about Ina Garten White Bean Salad Recipe

1. Can I use dry beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can cook dry beans and use them. Just make sure they are soft and cooled. Canned beans are faster and easier for busy days.

2. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad tastes even better after resting. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. The flavors blend beautifully overnight.

3. Can I add more vegetables to the salad?
Yes, you can add cucumber, bell peppers, carrots or greens. The recipe is flexible and works well with many fresh vegetables.

4. Can I replace lemon juice with vinegar?
Yes, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work. But fresh lemon juice tastes brighter and more refreshing in this salad.

5. How do I prevent the beans from breaking?
Mix gently with a spoon. Do not mash or stir too hard. Rinsing beans well and drying them helps keep them firm.

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten white bean salad recipe is fresh, simple and full of flavor. It is perfect for quick meals, parties or healthy lunches. With easy ingredients and steps, anyone can make this salad at home.

The bright lemon dressing and soft beans create a wonderful mix. Follow the steps, tips and enjoy this delicious and healthy dish. This recipe will become one of your favorites.