This Green Bean and Feta Salad is a tasty and fresh mix! Crunchy green beans and creamy feta cheese come together with a zesty dressing that makes every bite fantastic.
Who knew something so simple could be this good? It’s perfect for a side dish or a light lunch. I love making it ahead of time since the flavors just get better together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are a must for this salad. Look for ones that are bright green and firm. If you can’t find fresh, you could use frozen green beans; just blanch them longer according to package instructions.
Cherry Tomatoes: Mixed color cherry tomatoes add a lovely visual pop. If they’re not available, any small tomatoes will work. Grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes can be substituted.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy tanginess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a vegan feta made from nuts. Crumbled goat cheese can also work for a similar flavor.
Red Onion: While red onion gives a nice crunch and flavor, you can substitute with shallots for a milder taste or green onions for a fresh twist.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brightens the dish. If you don’t have basil, fresh parsley or even mint can make a delightful swap!
How Do I Blanch Green Beans Perfectly?
Blanching green beans is crucial for maintaining their vibrant color and crunch. Follow these steps for great results:
- Boil salted water in a large pot—salt enhances the flavor and helps keep the beans green.
- Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes. They should be tender but still crisp.
- Immediately transfer them to an ice bath using a slotted spoon to stop cooking. This also helps maintain that bright green color!
- Once cool, drain and set aside. Avoid letting them sit too long in the water, or they could become soggy!
How to Make Green Bean and Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (mixed colors), halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 5 minutes cooking the green beans and then about 15 minutes assembling the salad and letting it rest to blend the flavors. It’s a quick and refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanching the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. After that, drain the beans and immediately transfer them to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) to cool quickly. Once cooled, drain the beans again and set them aside.
2. Mixing the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, and torn basil leaves. Give them a gentle stir to mix everything together.
3. Adding the Green Beans:
Now it’s time to add the cooled green beans to your mixing bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together to combine them well without breaking the feta cheese too much.
4. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and if you like, the dried oregano or Italian seasoning. This dressing will add a delicious flavor to your salad.
5. Combining Salad and Dressing:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Make sure it looks vibrant and colorful!
6. Resting and Serving:
Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your fresh and tasty Green Bean and Feta Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you use frozen green beans, there’s no need to blanch them. Just steam them until heated through according to the package instructions, then cool in an ice bath before adding them to the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for feta, try goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re vegan. Both options will provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor, though the taste will differ slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the green beans may lose their crisp texture, so consider adding more fresh green beans or tomatoes just before serving for a fresher crunch!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just make the salad and dressing separately and combine them right before serving to keep the greens crispy and fresh. If you do mix them early, it’s best to serve it within 3-4 hours.
