If you’re looking for a simple, nutritious, and flavorful dish, let me introduce you to Piyaz—a traditional Turkish white bean salad. This delightful recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal on its own, piyaz is a must-try for anyone who loves Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine.
The best part? It takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy days when you need something quick, healthy, and delicious. Traditionally, piyaz is served alongside Turkish köfte (grilled meatballs) with a refreshing glass of ayran (a yogurt-based drink). These three elements together create a perfect balance of flavors and textures, a true classic in Turkish cuisine. If you’ve ever been to Turkey, you’ve probably come across this famous trio! And now, you can recreate it at home.
Serve with KOFTE and AYRAN, check the recipes!
About recipe;
What is Piyaz(White Bean Salad)?
The word “piyaz” comes from Persian, meaning “onion”, which makes sense because onions are a key ingredient in this dish. Over the years, the recipe evolved to include tomatoes, parsley, and various spices, making it a colorful and flavorful salad.
While piyaz is commonly known as a side dish for kofte, it can also stand alone as a satisfying vegan or vegetarian meal. It’s rich in protein and fiber, making it a great choice for a healthy diet. If you want to experience a true Turkish meal, pair this salad with homemade kofte and ayran for the ultimate combination.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Turkish White Bean Salad?
Super simple and quick – Ready in just 15 minutes!
Great for meal prep – Perfect for packing in a jar for lunch or picnics.
Light yet satisfying – A wholesome and refreshing salad that keeps you full.
Naturally vegan and vegetarian-friendly – Delicious on its own or paired with your favorite protein.
Ingredients You’ll Need;
White beans – You can use canned beans for convenience or dry beans for a more authentic taste. If using dry beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender but still slightly firm (al dente).
Red onion – Thinly sliced for a bit of crunch. White onion works just as well.
Tomatoes – Adds juiciness and a touch of sweetness.
Parsley – A must-have for freshness and color.
Olive oil – Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Lemon juice & zest – Brightens up the dish with a fresh, tangy taste.
Vinegar – Traditionally used, but you can adjust to your preference.
Salt – Brings all the flavors together.
How to make the recipe?
If using canned beans, drain and rinse them well. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and boil them until they are soft but not mushy. Let them cool slightly before assembling the salad.
Thinly slice the red onion and chop the tomatoes and parsley. In a large bowl, combine the beans, onions, tomatoes, lemon zest and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar(optinal), and salt. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some sumac and add olives or boiled eggs if desired.
Is Piyaz (White Bean Salad) Vegan or Vegetarian?
Yes! Piyaz is a completely vegan dish, making it a fantastic plant-based meal or side dish. It’s so satisfying that you can eat it on its own without missing anything. If you’re vegetarian, adding a boiled egg on top enhances the flavor and texture.
Traditionally, piyaz is served with kofte, so if you’re not vegan or vegetarian, you might want to try it the classic way. Turkish cuisine has plenty of vegetarian and vegan dishes, but many of them are also paired with grilled meats. That said, piyaz is still a fantastic choice for vegans!
How to serve?
Traditional Style – Serve with kofte and ayran for an authentic Turkish experience.
Light Lunch – Enjoy it on its own or with a slice of crusty bread.
Picnic-Ready – Pack it in a jar and take it on the go.
Mezze Platter – Serve it alongside hummus, baba ghanoush, and pita bread for a delicious Mediterranean spread.
Piyaz is a must-try traditional Turkish recipe that brings together fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a delightful texture. Whether you serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a meal on its own, this salad is guaranteed to impress.
Give it a try, and let me know how you like it! Trust me, once you taste this simple yet delicious white bean salad, it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen. Afiyet olsun!
