Craving a meal that’s both satisfying and good for you? This Greek Lemon White Bean Bowl is a vibrant, delicious way to enjoy Healthy Bean Bowls, packed with fresh flavors and nourishing ingredients. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Canned White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans work best. You can cook dried beans if you prefer.
- Fresh Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard are excellent alternatives.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Use diced regular tomatoes if cherry tomatoes aren’t available.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese or a plant-based feta substitute also work well.
- Lemon: Essential for that bright Greek flavor; no real substitute for fresh lemon juice.
Ingredients:
For the Bowl:
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (depending on exact ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, whisk, measuring spoons and cups.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Vegetables
Start by washing and preparing your fresh produce. Halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the red onion, and roughly chop the fresh dill. Set these aside in your mixing bowl.
2. Rinse and Add Beans
Open your can of cannellini beans, rinse them thoroughly under cold water, and drain well. Add the rinsed beans to the bowl with your prepared vegetables and fresh spinach.
3. Whisk the Dressing
In a small separate bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
4. Combine and Toss
Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients in your large mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together until the beans, vegetables, and spinach are evenly coated.
5. Add Feta and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over your Greek Lemon White Bean Bowl. Give it one last gentle toss or serve immediately, dividing into two bowls.
Variation Ideas:
- Add cooked quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
- Include sliced cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Top with Kalamata olives for an authentic Greek touch.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Greek Lemon White Bean Bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While delicious cold, you can gently warm it in the microwave for a short burst if you prefer a slightly warmer meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, chickpeas or black-eyed peas would also work well in this Healthy Bean Bowl recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free feta substitute.
Can I add a protein source?
Cooked chicken or a plant-based protein alternative would be excellent additions to this bowl.
What if I don’t have fresh dill?
You can use about half a teaspoon of dried dill, though fresh is always recommended for the best flavor.
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to 2-3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Whisk again before using.