Name: Piyaz (Turkish White Bean Salad)
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 2 teaspoons sumac; 1 teaspoon sea salt, divided; 3 medium tomatoes, diced; 1 can butter beans, drained (15 oz); 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml); 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (15 ml); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (15 ml); Black pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Aleppo chili flakes (pul biber)

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A Cozy Salad for All Occasions: Piyaz (Turkish White Bean Salad)

As the days grow warmer and the sun stays out a little longer, I find my cravings shifting towards bright, refreshing dishes that nourish both body and soul. There’s something profoundly comforting about a simple yet flavorful salad that can be thrown together in moments, like a burst of sunshine on a warm afternoon. This Piyaz, a delightful Turkish white bean salad, is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that brings a little piece of the Mediterranean to your table.

The first time I savored Piyaz was during a summer road trip through Turkey with friends, sharing laughter and stories as we dug into this crowd-pleasing salad. The tangy sumac combined with the creamy texture of butter beans and the bright crunch of fresh tomatoes transported me to sun-drenched markets overflowing with the bounty of the land. Now, I’m excited to share this family-friendly recipe with you, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a lovely addition to any gathering. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this salad takes minimal time to prepare.
No-Bake Delight: Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for hot days.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sumac, fresh parsley, and zesty lemon delivers a vibrant taste that everyone will love.
Packed with Protein: With butter beans adding a heartiness, this salad keeps you satisfied.
Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt it to suit your taste with different ingredients or toppings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen when marinated, making it perfect for prepping in advance.

What You’ll Need

Gather the ingredients for this refreshing salad and get ready to create something truly special.

1 red onion, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons sumac
1 teaspoon sea salt, divided
3 medium tomatoes, diced
1 can butter beans, drained (15 oz)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (15 ml)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (15 ml)
Black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Aleppo chili flakes (pul biber)

Let’s Make It Together

Follow these simple steps to create your delightful Piyaz.

In a large bowl, combine the sliced onions, sumac, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Use your hands to rub the sumac and salt into the onions for about 30-60 seconds. This massage helps to draw out the onion’s flavors.
Add the diced tomatoes, drained butter beans, and chopped parsley to the onion mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
Drizzle in the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss until everything is well combined and the beans are evenly coated.
Taste your salad and adjust with more salt and black pepper as needed.
Optional: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the salad marinate for 20-30 minutes at room temperature before serving.
Serve this refreshing Piyaz chilled or at room temperature.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Delicious Variations to Try

Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Piyaz.

Add Creamy Avocado: For a rich twist, fold in diced avocado just before serving. The creamy texture complements the beans perfectly.
Feta Cheese Crumble: Sprinkle crumbled feta on top for a salty, indulgent addition that elevates the dish even further.
Roasted Vegetables: Try incorporating roasted bell peppers or zucchini for a taste of summer and extra layers of flavor.
Crisp Cucumber: Adding diced cucumber provides a refreshing crunch and enhances the salad’s overall brightness.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

To ensure your Piyaz is absolutely perfect, keep these helpful tips in mind:

Make-Ahead Magic: This salad tastes even better the longer it sits! Make it a day in advance and let it marinate in the fridge overnight.
Ingredient Swaps: If butter beans aren’t available, feel free to use cannellini or chickpeas instead—they work wonderfully too!
Slicing Secrets: For thinly sliced onions, use a sharp knife and cut against the grain. This softens their pungency and makes them milder in flavor.
Stay Fresh: Always store leftovers in an airtight container. Enjoy them within three days for the best quality.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition for this vibrant salad:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: Approximately 250
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugars: 3g
Fat: 12g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 300mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Piyaz gets even better after marinating for a few hours or overnight.
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap beans or add your favorite vegetables.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
How long does it last?
Best enjoyed fresh, but it can last up to three days in the fridge when stored properly.

A Cozy Closing Note

This Piyaz (Turkish White Bean Salad) is not just a recipe but an experience that transports you to the sunny markets and delightful feasts of Turkey. It’s a simple, wholesome dish that brings friends and family together, fitting perfectly on any table—whether for a cozy dinner at home or a lively potluck with loved ones.

Save this Piyaz (Turkish White Bean Salad) to your "Easy Weeknight Dinner" board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!