Turkish Butter Beans are a hidden gem of Mediterranean cuisine—a hearty, zesty, and refreshing dish that balances earthy legumes with vibrant herbs, crisp vegetables, and bright citrus dressing. Whether you’re craving a high-protein side dish, a light plant-based lunch, or an easy dinner pairing, this Turkish beans recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Butter beans, also known as large white lima beans, take center stage in this recipe. Their creamy texture and neutral flavor absorb the Mediterranean-style dressing like a sponge, making every bite rich and satisfying. When paired with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, red onion, and a generous drizzle of lemony olive oil, these beans transform into a crave-worthy salad you’ll want to make on repeat.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the origins of Turkish white bean salad, its health benefits, preparation tips, ingredient variations (like how to turn it into a white bean Greek salad o white bean artichoke salad), and serve-it-anytime ideas. Let’s dive into the heart of this Mediterranean treasure.
What Are Turkish Butter Beans?
Turkish butter beans are typically featured in a traditional dish called Piyaz. This dish can be found throughout Turkey, especially in regions like Antalya and Izmir. Piyaz refers to a white bean salad tossed in a tangy, garlic-lemon vinaigrette with raw onions and parsley. In some areas, it’s also enriched with tahini, turning the dish into a creamy delight.
For our recipe, we’re using canned butter beans, making it an easy salad recipe that’s ready in minutes. While dried beans can be used for a more traditional approach, canned beans offer a convenient option without compromising on taste or texture.
Why You’ll Love This Turkish Beans Recipe
There’s so much to love about this recipe, but here are a few top reasons:
- Simple ingredients: Mostly pantry staples and fresh herbs.
- Quick prep: Comes together in less than 20 minutes.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.
- Vegan and gluten-free: Suitable for most dietary preferences.
- Perfecto para la preparación de comidas: Tastes even better the next day.
In short, this is one of those easy salad recipes you’ll keep in your back pocket for weekday meals, potlucks, picnics, and healthy sides.
Ingredients: What You Need
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful Mediterranean white bean salad:
Para la Ensalada:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small red onion, finely sliced
- 1 cucumber, cortado en cubitos
- 1 red bell pepperpicado
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsleypicado
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for a Greek-style twist)
- 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped (optional for a White Bean Artichoke Salad variation)
Para el Aderezo:
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1–2 lemons
- 1 garlic clovepicado
- 1 teaspoon sumac (a tangy Middle Eastern spice that elevates this salad)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Sal y pimientaal gusto
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions: How to Make Turkish Butter Beans
Step 1: Prep Your Beans
If you’re using canned butter beans, rinse them thoroughly under cold water. This step helps remove excess sodium and improve flavor. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Finely slice the red onion. If you want a milder flavor, soak it in ice water for 10 minutes before draining. Dice the cucumber and bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the parsley and mint. Toss all the vegetables and herbs into the bowl with the beans.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, sumac, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Combine
Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently to combine. Be careful not to mash the butter beans—they’re soft and creamy but fragile.
Paso 5: dejamos Enfriar y Servir
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This makes the salad more cohesive and flavorful.
Sugerencias Para Servir
There are endless ways to enjoy this Turkish white bean salad. Here are some of our favorites:
- As a side dish: Pair with grilled chicken, lamb chops, or Turkish kebabs.
- In a mezze platter: Serve alongside hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, and flatbread.
- For lunch: Spoon over a bed of arugula or spinach and top with avocado.
- As a filling: Use it to stuff pita pockets or wraps with fresh greens and tahini sauce.
- With eggs: Try it for brunch topped with a poached egg and crusty bread.
It’s a flavor-packed, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional sides like pasta or potato salad.
Customization Ideas
This white bean salad is incredibly versatile. You can easily turn it into:
➤ White Bean Greek Salad
Add crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, chopped oregano, and a splash of red wine vinegar. This variation has a briny, tangy flavor profile that pairs beautifully with grilled fish or chicken.
➤ White Bean Artichoke Salad
Chop canned artichoke hearts and toss them into the mix. Add a touch of rosemary or thyme for depth. Perfect as a stand-alone lunch salad or appetizer.
➤ Spicy Mediterranean Bean Bowl
Add chopped pepperoncini, sun-dried tomatoes, and crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery twist. Serve warm or cold.
➤ Creamy Tahini Piyaz
Swap out some of the olive oil with tahini in the dressing. This makes a richer, creamier version inspired by Antalya-style piyaz.
Nutritional Benefits: USDA Food Profile
According to USDA food data, butter beans are incredibly nutritious:
- High in fiber: Promotes satiety and digestive health.
- Rich in protein: A plant-based source of essential amino acids.
- Packed with minerals: Iron, potassium, magnesium, and folate.
- Low in fat and cholesterol-free
Combined with olive oil, fresh vegetables, and lemon juice, this Mediterranean white bean salad is a heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory powerhouse. It’s ideal for those following the Mediterranean diet, vegan lifestyle, or anyone looking for good-tasting healthy food.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best parts of this dish is how well it keeps.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Flavor development: The longer it sits, the better the flavor. Just give it a stir before serving.
- Meal prep: Make a big batch at the start of the week for a grab-and-go lunch option.
Avoid freezing, as the vegetables and beans can become mushy once thawed.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes! You can substitute with cannellini beans, garbanzoso navy beans, though butter beans offer the creamiest texture.
What if I don’t have sumac?
Use a splash of red wine vinegar or a sprinkle of lemon zest for tang. But if you can find sumac, it’s worth keeping in your spice cabinet.
Is this recipe suitable for weight loss?
Absolutely. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients, making it ideal for calorie deficit meal ideas and clean eating.
Can I make this for a crowd?
Yes! Simply double or triple the recipe. It’s a fantastic dish for picnics, parties, or potlucks.
Reflexiones Finales
If you’re on the hunt for a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s equal parts nourishing and delicious, this Turkish Butter Beans salad is your answer. It’s a bright, herbaceous, protein-packed salad that highlights the beauty of humble ingredients—proof that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch, a side at dinner, or a star of your next mezze platter, this dish will soon become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, with countless ways to customize it—from white bean Greek salad variations to spicy or creamy adaptations—you’ll never get bored.
So grab a can of butter beans, a handful of herbs, and some fresh lemon juice, and get ready to taste the Mediterranean in every bite.
Spanish 
English 
French 
Portuguese