
Why Make This Recipe
Speedy Sardine + Butter Bean Salad is a quick and healthy dish packed with flavor and nutrients. It combines the richness of sardines with the protein of butter beans, along with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing. This salad is perfect for lunch or a light dinner, and it can be prepared in minutes. Whether you’re short on time or just want a tasty meal, this salad has you covered.
How to Make Speedy Sardine + Butter Bean Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 jar Queen Butter Beans or Queen White Beans – drained
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp capers
- A small bunch (about 10g) fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 x 120g tins sardine in olive oil or brine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1-1.5 tsp dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp honey (optional)
Directions:
- To a large mixing bowl, add all the ingredients for the dressing: olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Add the drained butter beans, celery, red onion, capers, and parsley to the same bowl. Lightly flake in the sardines and toss everything well to combine, ensuring that each ingredient is in bite-sized pieces.
- Serve the salad onto plates. Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.
How to Serve Speedy Sardine + Butter Bean Salad
Serve this salad on its own or with crusty bread for a more filling meal. It’s also great as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. You can enjoy it warm or cold, making it versatile for any occasion.
How to Store Speedy Sardine + Butter Bean Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within two days. Note that the flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier for lunch the next day.
Tips to Make Speedy Sardine + Butter Bean Salad
- Make sure to drain the beans well to avoid a watery salad.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and mustard to suit your taste.
- For extra crunch, add some diced cucumber or bell peppers.
Variations
You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have. Try using chickpeas instead of butter beans, or add some sliced avocado for creaminess. If you like heat, consider adding some chopped chili or a dash of hot sauce.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sardines instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh sardines, but you will need to cook them beforehand. Canned sardines are convenient and already cooked.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just mix everything except for the sardines and drizzle of olive oil until you are ready to serve to keep it fresh.

Speedy Sardine + Butter Bean Salad
Ingredients
For the salad
- 1 jar Queen Butter Beans or Queen White Beans – drained
- 2 sticks celery, finely chopped
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp capers
- 10 g fresh parsley, finely chopped small bunch
- 3 tins sardine in olive oil or brine (120g each)
For the dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 Juice of 1 lemon
- 1.5 tsp dijon mustard 1-1.5 tsp according to taste
- 0.25 tsp honey optional
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, add olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Add the drained butter beans, celery, red onion, capers, and parsley to the same bowl. Lightly flake in the sardines and toss everything well to combine, ensuring that each ingredient is in bite-sized pieces.
- Serve the salad onto plates, finishing with an extra drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.