Why Make This Marinated Za’atar Bean Salad
This Marinated Za’atar Bean Salad is a delightful dish brimming with vibrant flavors and textures. The combination of chickpeas and butter beans provides a hearty base, while the tanginess of lemon, brightness of fresh herbs, and the unique spice blend of za’atar elevate it to something special. Not only is this salad packed with nutrients, but it also offers a refreshing option for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to suit various dietary preferences.
How to Make Marinated Za’atar Bean Salad
Making this salad is simple and requires minimal cooking, making it perfect for both novice and experienced home cooks. The process revolves around marinating the ingredients to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The star of the show, za’atar, is a Middle Eastern spice blend that adds a delightful earthiness and complexity. With just a few steps, you’ll have a stunning, colorful salad on your table that can impress guests or satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 lemon’s worth of zest
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup green olives, roughly chopped
- 7-8 jarred artichoke hearts, quartered (optional)
- 1/2 cup firmly packed mint leaves, finely minced
- 1/2 cup firmly packed parsley, finely minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed and roughly chopped
- 3 tsp za’atar
- 1 tsp sumac
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
Directions:
- Thinly slice the onion and place it in a large bowl. Toss it with the kosher salt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let it sit for a few minutes to mellow the raw onion flavor.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas and butter beans thoroughly. Add them to the bowl with the marinated onions.
- Roughly chop the green olives, and finely mince the mint and parsley. Add these flavorful ingredients to the salad bowl.
- In a small pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic and sauté until it begins to brown. Once browned, remove the pan from heat and stir in the za’atar, sumac, and cumin to create a fragrant garlic marinade.
- Pour the garlic marinade over the salad, tossing everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
- For best flavor, let the salad marinate for about 2 hours before serving. It can also be enjoyed fresh. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a delightful experience.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Vitamin C: 20% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Iron: 15% of the DV
How to Serve Marinated Za’atar Bean Salad
This Marinated Za’atar Bean Salad is versatile when it comes to serving options. It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, served alongside pita bread and a dollop of yogurt for a Mediterranean feast. It also stands alone as a light lunch or as part of a picnic spread. Consider serving it atop a bed of mixed greens or alongside roasted vegetables for a wonderfully balanced meal.
How to Store Marinated Za’atar Bean Salad
To store any leftovers, transfer the salad to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving again.
Expert Tips for Perfect Marinated Za’atar Bean Salad
- Fresh Herbs: Using fresh mint and parsley really elevates the flavors. Make sure to chop the herbs finely to evenly distribute their flavor throughout the salad.
- Olives: Choose olives that you enjoy. Kalamata, green, or even a mix will work beautifully.
- Zesting Lemons: Use a microplane zester to get the finest zest without the bitter pith.
- Add Proteins: For a heartier salad, you can toss in some grilled chicken or feta cheese.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
- Crunchy Element: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
- Different Beans: Substitute black beans or kidney beans in place of chickpeas or butter beans for a unique flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for make-ahead meals! It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
2. Can I substitute za’atar?
If you can’t find za’atar, you can create a similar flavor by mixing dried oregano, sesame seeds, and a pinch of sumac. While it won’t be exact, it will still offer a delicious taste.
3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this salad are naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
The Marinated Za’atar Bean Salad is a deliciously fresh and nutritious recipe that combines unique flavors and brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. With its easy preparation and adaptability, it’s ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a satisfying lunch. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your taste buds will thank you, and it’s a wonderful way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful salad with family and friends!
Marinated Za'atar Bean Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Thinly slice the onion and place it in a large bowl. Toss it with the kosher salt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let it sit for a few minutes to mellow the raw onion flavor.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas and butter beans thoroughly. Add them to the bowl with the marinated onions.
- Roughly chop the green olives, and finely mince the mint and parsley. Add these flavorful ingredients to the salad bowl.
- In a small pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic and sauté until it begins to brown.
- Once browned, remove the pan from heat and stir in the za’atar, sumac, and cumin to create a fragrant garlic marinade.
- Pour the garlic marinade over the salad, tossing everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
- For best flavor, let the salad marinate for about 2 hours before serving. It can also be enjoyed fresh. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a delightful experience.