This Dilly White Bean and Cucumber Salad is a cool and crisp dish that’s perfect for a hot day. With fresh cucumbers, creamy white beans, and a zesty dill dressing, it’s super refreshing!
It’s so easy to make that you can whip it up in a flash! I love bringing it to picnics because it’s light, tasty, and everyone keeps asking for the recipe—always a bonus! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: I recommend using cannellini or great Northern beans for their creamy texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, chickpeas or navy beans can work well too!
Cucumber: A large, fresh cucumber is key. If you’re short on cucumbers, zucchini can be a great substitute, adding a slightly different texture.
Dill: Fresh dill gives the salad its bright flavor. If you can’t find fresh dill, use 1 teaspoon of dried dill, but keep in mind it won’t be as vibrant.
Red Onion: This adds a nice zing, but it’s optional. If you prefer a milder flavor, try substituting with green onions or chives.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad. If you don’t have it on hand, vinegar, such as white wine or apple cider, is a good alternative for acidity.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crisp?
To keep your salad nice and fresh, here are some tips:
- Make sure to drain and rinse your white beans thoroughly to rid them of any canning liquid that can make the salad soggy.
- After slicing your cucumber, consider sprinkling it with a bit of salt and letting it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out extra moisture!
- Chill the salad for about 30 minutes before serving. The cool temperature enhances the refreshing taste and keeps the ingredients crispy.
- If you’re not serving the salad right away, consider adding the dressing just before serving to prevent any sogginess.
Refreshing Dilly White Bean and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini or great Northern beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Once you’ve mixed everything, it’s best to let it chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to enhance the flavors. So, from start to finish, you’ll be looking at around 40 minutes total, including chilling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together the drained white beans and thinly sliced cucumber. These two ingredients make a great base for a refreshing salad.
2. Add Fresh Flavors:
Next, sprinkle in the finely chopped fresh dill and the red onion if you’re using it. Toss everything gently together to mix the ingredients well.
3. Whisk Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until everything is well combined.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the beans and cucumber mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the delicious dressing.
5. Chill and Meld the Flavors:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 20-30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors blend beautifully!
6. Final Touches:
Just before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if you’d like.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve your refreshing salad! Enjoy it chilled as a delightful side dish or a light lunch—perfect for any warm day!
Enjoy this cool, crisp salad that’s perfect for warm weather!
Can I Use Canned Beans Other Than White Beans?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use chickpeas, kidney beans, or even black beans as an alternative. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! This salad is already vegan with the ingredients listed. Just ensure that any additional seasonings or ingredients you choose to add are also plant-based.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a toss before serving again, as the flavors will continue to meld over time!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even radishes for extra crunch and flavor. Just keep the proportions in mind so everything stays balanced.
