Red meat isn't a prominent part of the Mediterranean diet, so for those people used to eating it regularly, using plant-based proteins like beans in meals can help reduce meat portions. This is an excellent example of a positive "eat more" strategy that focuses on adding something nutritious to the diet, in contrast to the unsustainable "avoid" rhetoric we are often sold by diet culture. The fact is, plant-based proteins like beans are a delicious stepping stone for those carnivores aspiring to plant-power their diets! White beans are crisped up in the oven in this dish, acting like protein-packed croutons on top of this peppery salad. They also make for a great crunchy snack.