Healthy Lunch Lemon Dill White Bean Salad

Name: Healthy Lunch Lemon Dill White Bean Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Kitchen

I love making this Healthy Lunch Lemon Dill White Bean Salad because it’s so refreshing and energizing! The bright citrus notes combined with the aromatic dill create a perfect balance, making it ideal for a light yet satisfying meal. With protein-packed white beans and crunchy veggies, this salad keeps me full without weighing me down. It’s simple to prepare, and leftovers taste even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover herbs from my fridge.

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:09:35.835Z

This Lemon Dill White Bean Salad quickly became a staple in my kitchen. I often experiment with different herbs, but the bright punch of dill paired with the sharpness of fresh lemon juice is unbeatable. I always make sure to rinse the beans well; it enhances the flavor and removes excess sodium, making it a healthier choice.

The method of letting the salad chill before serving helps marry the flavors beautifully. I often leave it in the fridge for at least half an hour after I’ve mixed it to allow the ingredients to really come together. A little patience goes a long way with this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright flavors from fresh lemon and dill.
Protein-packed and filling yet light.
Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.

Ingredient Insights

Using canned white beans not only saves time but also provides a creamy texture that complements the crunchy vegetables beautifully. I usually opt for cannellini or navy beans, as they are known for their mild flavor and high protein content. If you want to go the extra mile, you can soak and cook dried beans from scratch, but this will add significantly to your prep time.

Cherry tomatoes are a fantastic choice in this salad due to their sweetness and juicy texture. When halving them, look for tomatoes that are firm and vibrant. If you can’t find them, roma tomatoes can work in a pinch; just dice them and keep in mind they are less sweet. Fresh dill is essential here, imparting a distinctive aroma that elevates the entire salad. However, if dill is unavailable, fresh parsley or basil can serve as a substitute, albeit with a different flavor profile.

Preparation Tips

Combining the ingredients is straightforward, but be sure to cut the cherry tomatoes and cucumber uniformly so that they mix well with the beans. This uniformity not only helps with appearance but ensures that each bite is balanced. When chopping the red onion, rinse it under cold water to reduce its pungency if you prefer a milder taste.

When making the dressing, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil until it becomes glossy and slightly emulsified. This should take about 30 seconds to a minute. Adjust the seasoning at this point; tasting the dressing is crucial for balancing the tanginess with just the right amount of salt and pepper. A good rule of thumb is to start with a pinch of salt, as you can always add more later.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare a healthy and delicious salad.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all the ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the white beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh dill.

Make Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Toss Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Enjoy your fresh and healthy salad!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding feta cheese or avocado. This salad is also great served on a bed of greens for added nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Dill White Bean Salad is perfect for meal prep. To maintain freshness, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be mindful that the cucumbers may release water over time, so it's a good idea to layer the salad with the dressing at the bottom and vegetables on top to prevent sogginess.

If you're planning to serve leftovers, give the salad a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing. If it appears dry after sitting, drizzle a bit more olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the flavors. This rejuvenation step makes it just as enjoyable on the second day, as the ingredients will have marinated and melded, enhancing the overall taste.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Consider adding ingredients like avocado for a creamy texture or bell peppers for an added crunch and color. If you want a protein boost, grilled chicken or feta cheese can elevate the salad into a more substantial meal. For added crunch and flavor, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds sprinkled on top can make wonderful enhancements.

This salad is versatile in its presentation; it can be served as a side dish or a stand-alone meal. Pair it with whole-grain pita or flatbread to make it more filling. I enjoy serving it next to grilled fish or chicken during lunch, creating a delightful and balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! It can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for fresh dill?

You can substitute with fresh parsley or chives if dill is not available.

→ Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for about 3 days.