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Marinated Beans with Celery and Ricotta Salata

This vibrant marinated bean salad is a versatile vegetarian dish that celebrates simple, high-quality ingredients. By combining creamy cannellini beans or black-eyed peas with the crisp texture of thinly sliced celery, you create a satisfying contrast that feels both light and nourishing. The herb-infused dressing, made with extra-virgin olive oil and white wine vinegar, allows the flavours to develop beautifully over time, making it an excellent choice for a fresh summer side or a standout addition to a weekend spread.

Ideal for meal prep or a quick weekday lunch, this recipe can be partially prepared in advance to save time. The salty, tangy notes of the crumbled ricotta salata provide a perfect finishing touch, elevating the earthy beans and aromatic thyme. Serve this wholesome salad alongside crusty sourdough bread or as part of a larger Mediterranean-style feast for a healthy, fibre-filled meal that the whole family will enjoy.

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Ingredients for Marinated Beans with Celery and Ricotta Salata

  • 4 (425g) cans cannellini (white kidney) beans, navy beans, and/or black-eyed peas, rinsed

  • 4 celery stalks, thinly sliced

  • 160ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 6 tablespoons white wine vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped thyme, plus more for serving

  • Kosher salt

  • 110g ricotta salata (salted dry ricotta), crumbled

  • Freshly ground black pepper

Toss beans, celery, oil, vinegar, and 1 tablespoon thyme in a large bowl to combine; season generously with salt.

Just before serving, transfer beans to a shallow bowl and top with ricotta salata, pepper, and more thyme.

Bean salad (without celery and ricotta salata) can be made 3 days ahead. Cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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UK recipe editors

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UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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