This fresh green bean and feta salad is a perfect mix of crunchy beans and tangy feta, bringing a burst of flavor to your table. It’s easy to whip up and so colorful!
I love how quick this salad is to make. Just steam the beans, toss with feta, add a splash of lemon juice, and you’re ready to go. It’s a great side dish or light lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the key here for a snap and freshness. If they’re not available, you can use frozen green beans—just thaw them first. Canned beans won’t have the same crunch, but they work in a pinch!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes for extra color. You can swap them for other small tomatoes like grape tomatoes or even larger tomatoes, just chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Feta Cheese: Feta provides a nice tanginess. Try goat cheese for a creamier texture or a dairy-free feta if you’re keeping it vegan. Just ensure your choice adds that flavorful kick!
Basil: Fresh basil elevates the salad’s flavor, but you can substitute with parsley or even mint for something different. Dried herbs can work too—just use less since they are more concentrated.
How do I Keep Green Beans Bright and Crisp?
Blanching green beans is an essential step that turns them from dull to vibrant. Make sure to follow these steps for best results:
- Use plenty of salted water to help flavor the beans while cooking.
- Transfer the cooked beans to an ice water bath immediately after blanching. This halts the cooking and helps maintain that beautiful green color.
- For extra texture, don’t overcook! Aim for a tender-crisp finish.
This simple technique makes a world of difference in salads. Enjoy the crunch and color!
Easy Green Bean and Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (a mix of red and yellow)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time. You’ll spend a few minutes blanching the green beans, chopping the tomatoes, and mixing everything together. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the trimmed green beans. Blanch them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re bright green and still a bit crunchy. Remember, you want them tender-crisp!
2. Cooling the Beans:
After blanching, drain the beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps their vibrant color. Let them sit in the ice water for a few minutes, then drain them well.
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently fold in the chopped fresh basil to distribute the flavors evenly.
4. Adding Flavor:
Next, drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the salad. This will give it a bright flavor! Toss everything together gently, making sure all the ingredients are well mixed.
5. Season to Taste:
Finally, season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your liking. Give it one last gentle toss to combine all the flavors.
6. Serving Options:
You can serve the salad right away for the freshest taste. If you prefer, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving. It makes for a perfect light lunch, brunch option, or a vibrant side dish with grilled meats or fish!
This salad is not only fresh and colorful, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the salad. Blanching is not necessary for frozen beans, as they’re already partially cooked.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. If you add the olive oil and lemon juice just before serving, it will help keep the salad fresh.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The taste will still be good, though the green beans may lose some crunch. Simply give it a good toss before serving again!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, crumbled goat cheese works well and adds a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan feta made from nuts or tofu. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste!
