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Baked Feta & Bean Salad

Baked Feta & Bean Salad
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A vibrant and nutritious Baked Feta & Bean Salad combining creamy, tangy baked feta cheese with hearty mixed beans and fresh vegetables. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer, this salad offers effortless flavor, protein-packed goodness, and a refreshing, colorful crunch for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese

  • 1 block of creamy feta cheese (about 7 oz / 200g)

Beans

  • 1 cup mixed beans (canned chickpeas, cannellini, kidney beans), rinsed and drained

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced

Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or basil, roughly chopped

Seasonings & Extras

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, smashed (roasted or fresh)
  • Cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, to taste (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Feta: Place the block of feta cheese in a small baking dish. Drizzle generously with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, add a smashed garlic clove on top, and sprinkle with cracked black pepper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is soft and slightly golden at the edges.
  2. Rinse and Drain the Beans: While the feta bakes, rinse the canned mixed beans under cold water to remove excess salt and preserve flavor. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  3. Chop the Vegetables and Herbs: Dice the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and roughly chop the fresh parsley and dill or basil. These ingredients will add freshness, texture, and vibrant color to the salad.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, gently toss together the drained beans, diced tomatoes, sliced onion, and chopped herbs. Add a splash of fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to brighten and moisten the mixture.
  5. Add the Baked Feta: Remove the baked feta from the oven and transfer it carefully to the bowl with the salad ingredients. Break up the warm feta slightly with a fork, mixing it into the salad without losing its creamy texture.
  6. Final Seasoning: Give the entire salad a gentle stir, then season with cracked black pepper and salt to taste if needed. Serve immediately or chill briefly to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

  • Use Quality Feta: Opt for a block of authentic feta rather than crumbled pre-packaged for the best melt and flavor.
  • Don’t Overbake the Cheese: Watch the feta carefully; it should be soft, not dry or browned too much.
  • Drain Beans Well: Excess water can dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy.
  • Fresh Herbs Are Key: Add herbs last to preserve their bright flavor and color.
  • Serve Warm or Room Temperature: The salad tastes amazing both ways, giving you flexibility in serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked feta, bean salad, Mediterranean salad, healthy salad, vegetarian, gluten free, protein-packed

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/baked-feta-bean-salad/