This Easy Green Bean and Feta Salad is fresh and crunchy, perfect for a light meal or a bright side dish! It combines tender green beans with creamy feta and a splash of lemon.
I love how quickly this salad comes together—just a little boiling and tossing! It’s a great way to sneak in some greens, and who can resist that salty feta? 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are a must for this salad. They bring a nice crunch. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen green beans work too—just thaw and blanch them quickly.
Cherry Tomatoes: Using a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes adds color and sweetness. Feel free to substitute with grape tomatoes, which are a bit firmer.
Feta Cheese: Feta is key for that creamy texture and tangy flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, try using tofu feta or omit cheese altogether.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma and flavor. You can substitute it with parsley or even mint for a different twist.
How Do I Keep Green Beans Crisp and Bright?
Blanching the green beans is an essential step to maintaining their bright color and crisp texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Boil water in a large pot with a good pinch of salt. The salt enhances the beans’ flavor.
- Add green beans and let them cook for 3-4 minutes; they should be bright green but still crunchy.
- Immediately transfer them to an ice water bath. This stops the cooking process and keeps their vibrant color.
- Once cooled, drain and gently pat the beans dry with a towel before adding them to the salad.
Following these tips will keep your salad looking and tasting fresh! Enjoy making it your own with different ingredients as well!
Easy Green Bean and Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow for color)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend roughly 5 minutes boiling the green beans, 5 minutes mixing everything together, and if you want, an additional 30 minutes chilling for the flavors to blend beautifully. In no time, a bright, delicious dish is ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be bright green and just tender—still a bit crunchy!
2. Cool the Green Beans:
After boiling, quickly drain the green beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This step cools them down fast and keeps that vibrant green color. Once they are cool, drain them again and gently pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled green beans with the halved cherry tomatoes. Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh basil for that lovely burst of flavor.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together, making sure everything is coated nicely.
5. Season and Serve:
Season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you have time, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. However, it’s completely delicious served immediately!
This light and vibrant salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch. Enjoy! 🌿🥗
FAQ for Easy Green Bean and Feta Salad
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and quickly blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. This will help retain their color and crunch.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the green beans may lose their crispness over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I Substitute Feta Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can try using reduced-fat feta. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using tofu feta or avocado for creaminess without cheese.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the vegetables from getting soggy. Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving for optimal freshness.
