Green Bean and Feta Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing side dish that captures the essence of summer, look no further than this delightful Green Bean and Feta Salad. This recipe is a family favorite of mine, brimming with crisp green beans, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a gathering with friends and family. Plus, it holds up beautifully at picnics and potlucks, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

What makes this salad special is not only its vibrant flavors but also how simple it is to prepare. You’ll find that the ingredients are wholesome and easy to come by, allowing you to whip up this dish in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just about 28 minutes, making it an excellent option for last-minute dinners.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemony dressing and fresh herbs elevates the taste, making every bite delightful.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this salad in advance, saving you time on busy days.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fresh veggies, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this colorful dish full of flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Green Bean and Feta Salad is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds green beans (if using slender, also cut in half across)
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped or minced)
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/8 tsp salt and pepper to taste
• 14 oz grape or cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
• 1/2 cup feta (cubed)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or almonds for a crunchy texture.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a different flavor profile!
• Incorporate Other Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers or cucumbers for extra freshness.
• Make It Vegan: Swap out the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.

How to Make Green Bean and Feta Salad

Step 1: Parboil the Green Beans

Start by bringing a big pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans all at once and cook them for no more than 3 minutes. This quick cooking method helps retain their vibrant color and crunchiness. Once done, use a mesh strainer to remove them quickly and transfer them into a large bowl filled with ice water. This ice bath stops the cooking process, ensuring your green beans stay crisp.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

While your green beans are cooling off in their icy bath, let’s whip up a zesty dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing adds brightness to your salad while complementing the other flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Fresh Ingredients

In a large serving bowl, combine halved grape or cherry tomatoes along with chopped basil and parsley. These fresh herbs contribute wonderful aromas and flavors that make this salad truly special.

Step 4: Toss in the Green Beans

Once your green beans are cool enough to handle—pat them dry with a towel—and add them to the bowl with tomatoes and herbs. Gently toss everything together so that each ingredient gets coated in those yummy flavors.

Step 5: Finish with Feta

Finally, add cubed feta cheese into the mix. Be gentle as you combine everything; you want those little feta cubes intact for an extra burst of creaminess with each bite.

And there you have it—a bright and beautiful Green Bean and Feta Salad that’s sure to impress! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Green Bean and Feta Salad

Creating a delicious Green Bean and Feta Salad is easy, especially with these handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh summer green beans and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your salad. The quality of your produce makes a significant difference in taste.
• Don’t overcook the green beans: Parboiling for just 3 minutes ensures they stay crisp and vibrant. Overcooked beans can turn mushy and lose their bright color, so keep an eye on them!
• Make ahead of time: This salad holds up well in the refrigerator for a day or two, making it perfect for meal prep. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with herbs: While basil and parsley are fantastic, feel free to add other herbs like dill or mint for a unique twist. Different herbs can bring out new flavors and keep the salad exciting.
• Serve chilled: This salad is best served cold, so make sure to let it chill in the fridge before serving. A refreshing cold dish is perfect for warm days!

How to Serve Green Bean and Feta Salad

This Green Bean and Feta Salad not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful when presented right. Here are some presentation ideas that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Lemon slices: Adding a few lemon slices on top gives a fresh pop of color and enhances the citrus flavor.
• Additional feta crumbles: Sprinkling extra feta on top adds a creamy texture and makes the dish look more appealing.
• Toasted pine nuts: For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts over the salad just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in herbs complement the freshness of the salad perfectly, making it a complete meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with vegetables pairs beautifully with this salad, adding protein without overpowering its flavors.
• Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy roasted baby potatoes seasoned with rosemary offer a delightful contrast to the crisp texture of the green beans.
• Hummus and Pita Bread: A creamy hummus served with warm pita bread provides a satisfying side that balances out the crispness of the salad.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Green Bean and Feta Salad will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy this easy-to-make side dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Bean and Feta Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep, as it stays fresh and delicious for days! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salad to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, keep the feta separate until serving to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of fresh vegetables.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the crunch of the green beans and the juiciness of the tomatoes.

Reheating

• This salad is served cold, so there’s no need to reheat.
• If you prefer it warm, gently toss in a pan over low heat just until warmed through. However, note that this will alter the texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Green Bean and Feta Salad.

Can I use frozen green beans in my Green Bean and Feta Salad?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before adding them to your salad for the best results.

What can I substitute for feta in this Green Bean and Feta Salad?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or a vegan feta alternative. These will give you a similar texture while keeping your salad delicious!

How long does Green Bean and Feta Salad last in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Enjoy it cold for a refreshing snack or side dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Green Bean and Feta Salad as much as I do! It’s perfect for summer gatherings or even as a light meal throughout the week. The combination of fresh ingredients makes every bite delightful. Gather your friends or family, whip up this lovely dish, and share some smiles around the table! Happy cooking!