Egyptian Brown Bean Salad

Bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this Egyptian Brown Bean Salad is a refreshing and hearty dish that highlights the rich, earthy taste of tender fava beans (or fool medames). Complemented by crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and the zesty bite of red onion, this salad gets an aromatic boost from fresh parsley and cilantro. A tangy dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, and garlic ties everything together, making it the perfect combination of bright and savory. Optional chili pepper adds a delightful kick for those who enjoy a touch of heat. Ready in just 20 minutes, this wholesome salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal side dish, appetizer, or light meal when paired with warm pita bread. Packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors, this recipe is a delicious nod to traditional Egyptian cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 81/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked brown beans (fava beans or canned fool medames)
• 1 medium, diced tomato
• 1 medium, diced cucumber
• 0.5 medium, finely chopped red onion
• 0.25 cup, finely chopped parsley
• 0.25 cup, finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 clove, minced garlic
• 1 small, finely chopped chili pepper (optional, for heat)

Directions

Step 1

If using canned brown beans (fava beans), drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. If using dried beans, cook them until tender according to package instructions and allow them to cool.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown beans, diced tomato, diced cucumber, and finely chopped red onion.

Step 3

Add the fresh parsley and cilantro to the bowl, mixing gently to combine.

Step 4

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. If you're using chili pepper for heat, stir it into the dressing as well.

Step 5

Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture, tossing until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preference.

Step 7

Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 8

Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish, or pair with warm pita bread for a light and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	852.6 grams (852.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	867

Total Fat 44.60g	57%
Saturated Fat 7.00g	35%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.10g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2660mg	116%
Total Carbohydrate 91.00g	33%
Dietary Fiber 23.40g	84%
Total Sugars 11.90g
Protein 31.30g	63%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 271mg	21%
Iron 12mg	64%
Potassium 1800mg	38%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.1%

Protein: 14.1%

Carbs: 40.9%