Inspired by the classic Antipasto Salad, our version features white beans, marinated artichoke hearts and plenty of herbs to create a filling and flavorful dish.
Jump to RecipeWhat is Antipasto Salad
Antipasto Salad is believed to originate from Italy and literally translates into “before the meal”. It’s a dish that is often served before the first course. It usually includes things like cured meats, cheese, olives, peppers and other assorted vegetables all tossed in an oil based dressing.
Our Recipe Inspiration
Antipasto salads are actually one of my favorite things to order for lunch. I’m aware that it’s not meant for a meal, but I don’t believe in rules when it comes to food. I love that it feels like a sandwich but that it packs in the veggies and aside from an olive oil based dressing, the ingredients shine on their own.
I also love using canned goods and pantry staples whenever possible for appetizers. This means you can thrown them together at last minute’s notice if you have some unexpected visitors. This recipe takes advantage of canned goods like jarred artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers and canned beans to create a fast and filling side dish or appetizer.
I wanted to create a vegetarian spin on an antipasto salad. Here’s the kicker though, I wanted it to be filling enough to enjoy as a light lunch. That’s why I added canned beans.
Check out What’s the Difference Between Canned Beans and Dry Beans for more info on adding beans in your meals.
White Bean & Artichoke Antipasto Salad Recipe
You can easily make this recipe your own by changing up ingredients based on what you have or your preferences. If tomatoes aren’t in season, sun dried tomatoes would be great! Is you garden going crazy with different fresh herbs, add them in for a great flavor twist. Add in some olives, serve on a bed of romaine lettuce or even add in some pepperoncini peppers for a burst of flavor.
White Bean & Artichoke Antipasto Salad
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- salt and pepper, to taste
For the Antipasto Salad
- 1 can white northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 jar/can artichoke hearts, quartered (we prefer marinated but plain is fine too)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/8 cup parmesan cheese, grated or thinly shaved
- fresh parsley or other fresh herbs – optional garnish
Instructions
For the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, and garlic powder. Mix well to combine and season with salt and pepper as needed
For the Salad
- In a large bowl, add the drained and rinsed white beans, quartered artichoke hearts, sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and roasted red peppers. Mix to combine
- Pour the dressing over the salad, mix well and garnish with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
More Great Salad Recipes
Looking for more plant based salad ideas? Check out some of our favorites below.
- Greek Salad with Homemade Vinaigrette
- Cucumber and Cantaloupe Salad with Za’atar
- Thai Inspired Veggie Salad with Creamy Dressing
This was a wonderful side dish to our first cookout of the year! I did not have red wine vinegar, so used apple cider vinegar. Subbed fresh chopped red pepper for the roasted red pepper. This recipe could be easily made vegan by omitting the parmesan cheese.
Thank you for the recipe. I will definitely make it again!