The gentle whisper of cucumber and the hearty embrace of white beans, all draped in a dilly dressing, makes this Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad a staple in my kitchen. As I slice through the crisp cucumbers, memories of Mama Lou’s kitchen fill the air. She had a knack for turning simple ingredients into dishes that felt like a warm hug. This salad echoes those memories, bringing together the freshness of garden produce and the comfort of a home-cooked meal. It’s a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, much like the afternoons I spent with my sister Ouma, giggling over bowls of freshly tossed salads in Mama Lou’s sun-drenched kitchen.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad
There’s a reason why this Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad finds its way back to our table time and again. It’s a celebration of simplicity, a dish that balances freshness with heartiness. The creamy texture of the white beans pairs beautifully with the crispness of the cucumbers, all brought together by the bright, tangy notes of dill. This salad is reminiscent of the simple joys I experienced growing up, watching Mama Lou create magic with her hands. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down and savor each bite, much like the cherished moments spent with family around the dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad
- 2 cups canned white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon feta cheese, crumbled
Feel free to substitute the white beans with chickpeas for a different texture or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra tang. Mama Lou taught me that cooking is about creativity and adapting to what you have on hand.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
These nutrition facts are an approximation and can vary based on ingredient brands and measurements. As Mama Lou always said, balance is key, both in life and in our meals.
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Refresh Your Palate with Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad Delight
Learn how to make delicious Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups canned white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon feta cheese, crumbled
Feel free to substitute the white beans with chickpeas for a different texture or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra tang. Mama Lou taught me that cooking is about creativity and adapting to what you have on hand.
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed white beans and sliced cucumbers. Toss gently to mix them evenly.
- Add the chopped dill and red onion to the bowl, mixing them into the beans and cucumbers.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- For an optional touch, sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy finish.
- Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
As you prepare this dish, remember that the key is in the details. Mama Lou always reminded me to taste as I go and adjust the seasoning to suit my palate. Cooking is an art, and you are the artist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed white beans and sliced cucumbers. Toss gently to mix them evenly.
- Add the chopped dill and red onion to the bowl, mixing them into the beans and cucumbers.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- For an optional touch, sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy finish.
- Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
As you prepare this dish, remember that the key is in the details. Mama Lou always reminded me to taste as I go and adjust the seasoning to suit my palate. Cooking is an art, and you are the artist. Learn more: Refresh Your Palate with This Cucumber Strawberry Salad Sensation
Tips for Making the Best Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad
The secret to a truly refreshing Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad lies in the freshness of your ingredients. Choose firm cucumbers and vibrant dill to ensure the flavors are at their peak. Consider chilling the salad for a few minutes before serving to enhance its refreshing qualities. My sister Ouma and I often sat by the window, watching the world go by, as our salads chilled—a ritual that made the eventual tasting all the more rewarding.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, offering a light and refreshing counterpoint to richer main dishes. Alternatively, serve it alongside a crusty loaf of bread for a simple, satisfying meal. Mama Lou would often serve this salad with a side of roasted potatoes, a combination that never failed to bring smiles to our faces.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. However, keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose some of their crispness. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider adding fresh cucumber slices before serving again. Mama Lou’s kitchen was always a place of innovation, and she taught me that a dish can be ever-evolving, even after it’s been served.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad?
The main ingredients for Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad?
The total time to make Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad ahead of time?
Yes, Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad?
Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
This Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor life’s simple pleasures. As you share this dish with your loved ones, I hope it brings you as much joy and connection as it has brought to my family. Each bite is a reminder of the warmth of Mama Lou’s kitchen, the laughter shared with Ouma, and the timeless tradition of coming together over good food. Here’s to creating new memories, one delicious bite at a time.
