Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy with our refreshing Butterbean and Fresh Tomato Salad! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or as a delightful side for your next gathering. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a colorful dish that’s not only visually stunning but also packed with protein and nutrients. Imagine juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor, creamy butterbeans, and a zesty dressing that will leave your taste buds dancing. Don’t miss out on this deliciously simple salad that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can of butterbeans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Open the can of butterbeans, drain them in a colander, and rinse them under cold water to remove any excess sodium or canning liquid. Allow them to drain well.
- While the butterbeans are draining, wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Cut each tomato in half and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, take the red onion and finely chop it. You can do this by cutting the onion in half, peeling off the skin, and then slicing it into thin pieces before dicing it into small pieces. Add the chopped red onion to the bowl with the cherry tomatoes.
- Once the butterbeans are well-drained, add them to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes and red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine them without mashing the beans.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar. This will create a simple dressing for your salad. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Drizzle the dressing over the butterbean, tomato, and onion mixture. Gently toss the salad again to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- To serve, transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, either whole or torn, for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Your Butterbean and Fresh Tomato Salad is now ready to enjoy! This dish can be served immediately or allowed to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a side dish to your favorite Italian meal.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Look for tomatoes that are firm and brightly colored to enhance the salad's freshness.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to experiment with the dressing! Add a pinch of garlic powder or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing that complements the salad beautifully.
- Add Crunch: For added texture, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds before serving. They’ll add a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Let It Marinate: If time allows, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delicious.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve this salad alongside grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch. Pair it with crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious dressing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
