Mediterranean White Bean Salad

This week’s recipe combines my very favorite components of two salads at a local Mediterranean joint to make what may be my very favorite new salad.  One of the original recipes has a heavily-herbed dressing that I find overpowering; the second is made of mixed greens, which aren’t offensive but tend to bury all of the savory Mediterranean toppings.  This salad has a lot going on without being fussy, confusing, or difficult to make.  Creamy white beans, sweet grape-tomatoes, salty feta cheese, and earthy artichoke hearts make each bite different and still delicious.  With an ingredient list like that, you barely require a dressing at all, so a little fresh lemon juice and quality olive oil add just the right touch.  The result is a wonderfully bright Mediterranean White Bean Salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cans cannellini (white kidney) beans, drained and rinsed
• 12 oz. jar quartered artichoke hearts (I like the marinated version, but you can use either), cut in half lengthwise (to make eighths)
• 1 c. grape tomatoes, halved
• 3/4 c. feta cheese
• 1/4 c. red onion (optional)
• 2-3 T. fresh parsley, minced
• 1/2 c. fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 t. minced garlic
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Start with your lemon juice in a medium to large bowl.  While whisking vigorously, drizzle the olive oil into the juice, making a creamy-looking emulsion.  Add all of the remaining ingredients and toss well.  Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking.  Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. This Mediterranean White Bean Salad would be great with a crusty piece of this No-knead Rosemary-Parmesan Skillet Bread.