Butter Bean Salad with Feta

This butter bean salad with feta is fresh, tangy, and incredibly satisfying. I love how the creamy beans pair with crisp cucumber, sharp red onion, and salty feta, all tied together with a bright sumac and oregano dressing. It’s quick to prepare, full of Mediterranean flavors, and perfect for a light meal or side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this salad because it feels hearty but refreshing at the same time. The butter beans give it protein and creaminess, while the parsley and cucumber add brightness and crunch. The dressing is simple yet bold, with sumac bringing a lemony tang and oregano adding earthiness. I also like that it can be served on its own, with yogurt for creaminess, or alongside grilled meats and fish.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Dressing
▢¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
▢3 tablespoons red wine vinegar (see note 1)
▢2 teaspoons sumac (see note 2)
▢1 teaspoon dried oregano
▢1 teaspoon honey (or agave syrup, maple syrup)
▢¼ to ½ teaspoon fine sea salt (see note 3)

Salad
▢½ cup thinly sliced red onions
▢2 (15 oz / 14 fl oz / 398 ml) cans butter beans (rinsed and drained, see note 4)
▢1 English cucumber
▢1 cup curly parsley (tightly packed)
▢1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
▢Plain Greek yogurt (optional—for serving)

Directions

1. I start by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sumac, oregano, honey, and salt in a small bowl to make the dressing.
2. I thinly slice the red onion and chop the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, I combine the butter beans, onion, cucumber, parsley, and feta.
4. I pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is coated.
5. I like to serve it chilled or at room temperature, sometimes with a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes me around 10 minutes to prepare since the beans are canned and ready to use. It’s a quick salad that comes together in no time.

Variations

Sometimes I add cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color and sweetness. If I want more crunch, I include diced celery or radishes. For a spicier version, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili. I also like swapping parsley for fresh mint or basil when I want to change up the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the beans soak up the dressing, I often drizzle on a little extra olive oil or vinegar before serving again. I don’t reheat this salad it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

Yes, I can cook dried beans until tender and use them, but canned beans save time and work just as well.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, I leave out the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

What can I use instead of butter beans?

I like using cannellini beans, chickpeas, or even navy beans if butter beans aren’t available.

Do I need to salt the onions before adding them?

Sometimes I soak the onions in a little vinegar or lemon juice to mellow their sharpness before mixing them into the salad.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, I find the flavors improve after a few hours in the fridge, but I add the feta just before serving so it stays fresh.

What’s the best herb to use if I don’t have parsley?

I often use mint, basil, or cilantro as a substitute, depending on the flavor I want.

Can I add grains to make it a main dish?

Yes, I sometimes mix in quinoa, farro, or bulgur to make the salad more filling.

What does sumac add to the salad?

It adds a tangy, lemony flavor that brightens the beans and complements the feta.

Can I serve it with bread?

Yes, I love serving it with warm pita or crusty bread to soak up the dressing.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge, making it great for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

This butter bean salad with feta is one of my go-to recipes when I want something fast, flavorful, and nourishing. The creamy beans, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing make every bite refreshing. I love how versatile it is and how easily it comes together in just minutes. Whether I serve it as a side, a light meal, or pack it for lunch, it always hits the spot.

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