This fresh salad is a tasty mix of crisp green beans and creamy feta cheese. It’s bright, colorful, and perfect for any meal. Plus, it’s super simple to make!
I love how quick this salad is to whip up. Just boil the beans, add the feta, and toss in some olive oil and lemon juice. You’re going to enjoy every crunchy bite! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the star here! They should be vibrant and firm. If you don’t have fresh ones, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
Cherry Tomatoes: The mix of red and yellow tomatoes adds color and sweetness. You can swap them for halved grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes if needed.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives this salad a tangy flavor and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using tofu feta or a crumbled dairy-free cheese instead.
Olive Oil & Lemon Juice: These add richness and acidity to the dish. You can use any light oil like avocado oil in place of olive oil and vinegar (like balsamic or red wine) instead of lemon juice, though it will change the flavor profile a bit.
How Do You Keep Green Beans Crisp When Cooking?
Keeping green beans crisp is key for this salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by boiling the beans in salted water for just 3-4 minutes. You want them bright green and slightly tender.
- Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl filled with ice water. This stops the cooking and helps them stay crisp.
- Let them sit in the ice water for a few minutes, then drain them again before combining with the other ingredients.
With this simple technique, you’ll have perfectly crunchy green beans in your salad every time!
Easy Green Bean and Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (a mix of red and yellow), halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and about 5 minutes to cook the green beans. It’s quick to make, and you can serve it right away or let it chill for 30 minutes for even better flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the trimmed green beans. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they are bright green and tender-crisp. You want them to maintain a little crunch!
2. Ice Bath:
After cooking, drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water. This will stop the cooking and keep them nice and crisp. Let them sit for a few minutes, then drain again. You want them cool and ready to mix!
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. If you’re using basil, sprinkle it in now for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Add Dressing:
Drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the salad. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the ingredients are well-coated and mixed. Be careful not to mash the feta!
5. Season to Taste:
Season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last gentle toss to distribute the seasoning.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve this salad immediately or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit on your table!
FAQ for Easy Green Bean and Feta Salad
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen green beans, just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before adding them to the salad. This will help maintain the right texture and prevent the salad from becoming watery.
How Can I Substitute the Feta Cheese?
If you need a substitute for feta cheese, you can use crumbled goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor or try a vegan feta made from tofu or almonds for a dairy-free option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning since some alternatives can be saltier than feta.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the green beans may lose their crispness over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients like sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even toasted nuts for additional crunch. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may change the balance of flavors, so adjust the dressing accordingly!
