Healthy Lunch Lemon Dill White Bean Salad

Name: Healthy Lunch Lemon Dill White Bean Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of white beans (cannellini or navy), drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1 medium tomato, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 large lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Planning

I absolutely love preparing this Healthy Lunch Lemon Dill White Bean Salad whenever I want something light and refreshing. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant dill really elevates the humble white beans, making them the star of the dish. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, perfect for a quick lunch or a side at dinner. Each bite is a burst of flavor that keeps me energized throughout the day, and it's incredibly easy to whip up in just a few minutes.

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-01-14T06:53:35.043Z

When I first made this salad, I was looking for something healthy yet satisfying for lunch. I experimented with the dressing, and the simple blend of lemon juice and dill proved to be the perfect combination. It enhances the flavors without overpowering the beans, allowing each ingredient to shine. I often make this in larger batches, so I always have some on hand for a quick snack or meal throughout the week.

One key tip I learned is to let the salad sit for a bit after mixing to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it sits, the more the lemon and dill infuse into the beans. It’s a delightful make-ahead option for busy days, ensuring I can still enjoy a nutritious meal amidst my hectic schedule.

Why You Will Love This Salad
Bright and tangy flavors from fresh lemon juice
Nutritious white beans provide a tasty protein boost
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for meal prep

The Role of White Beans

White beans, such as cannellini or navy, are at the heart of this salad. Their creamy texture adds a satisfying mouthfeel, while their mild flavor serves as a blank canvas for the bright lemon and dill. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, these beans are not only nutritious but also help keep you feeling full longer. If you're looking for a substitute, chickpeas can work well, providing a slightly nuttier flavor while still contributing to the salad's protein content.

To ensure the best texture, make sure to drain and rinse the beans thoroughly. This will help remove any excess sodium and improve the overall freshness of your salad. When combining ingredients, be gentle to avoid mashing the beans—they should hold their shape to provide a pleasant bite in every forkful.

Dill and Lemon: A Perfect Pairing

Fresh dill brings a unique herbaceous quality that complements the zesty acidity of lemon juice beautifully. Adding the chopped dill directly into the salad allows its flavor to infuse with the beans and vegetables, creating a harmonious dish. If fresh dill is not available, you can substitute dried dill, but use it sparingly as the flavor is more concentrated—about one-third of the amount should suffice.

The lemon juice not only brightens the salad but also helps balance the creamy beans with its sharp tang. For a twist, you could experiment with flavored vinegars like white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to add extra layers of taste without overshadowing the primary flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Healthy Lunch Lemon Dill White Bean Salad shines as a meal prep option. The flavors intensify as it rests, making it even tastier after a few hours, or even the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it should last for up to three days. However, I recommend keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables.

If you want to enjoy this salad over a longer period, consider freezing it. While the texture of some ingredients like cucumber and tomato may not hold up, the bean mixture itself can freeze well. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh herbs and veggies right before serving for that fresh taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your salad delicious and wholesome!

Salad Ingredients

2 cans of white beans (cannellini or navy), drained and rinsed
1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1 medium tomato, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 large lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste

Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delightful salad!

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the drained white beans, chopped dill, red onion, cucumber, and tomato.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients, toss gently, and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

This salad can be served immediately or chilled for added flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped bell pepper or a handful of sunflower seeds on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This lemon dill white bean salad can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it chilled as a standalone lunch, or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also makes a fantastic side dish at summer barbecues or gatherings, adding a pop of color and flavor to your table.

For a more filling option, consider serving the salad over a bed of greens like arugula or spinach. This not only adds nutritional value but also presents a beautiful contrast of textures. Topping it with crumbled feta or sliced avocado can elevate it to the next level of deliciousness.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences. Adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots can introduce additional crunch and color. If you like it spicy, throwing in some chopped jalapeños can add a nice kick, turning up the flavor profile.

Another fun twist is to incorporate grains like quinoa or farro. This will not only enhance the salad's texture but also increase its nutritional value, making it even more filling and satisfying for lunch or dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to cook them beforehand. About 1 cup of dried beans makes roughly 2 cans.

→ How long can I store this salad?

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors develop beautifully over time.

→ Is it gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is gluten-free as it doesn't contain any grains or gluten-based products.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini would all make great additions.