This Easy Green Bean and Feta Salad is fresh and colorful! With crisp green beans, creamy feta, and a zesty dressing, it’s a perfect side for any meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are key for crunchiness. Frozen ones can work in a pinch, just reduce cooking time. Try snap peas for a different texture or asparagus for a seasonal twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using mixed-color cherry tomatoes for a pop! If they’re not available, any small tomato will do. You can also use diced bell peppers for a sweet crunch.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. If you prefer a milder flavor, use goat cheese or shredded mozzarella. Vegan feta is a good option if you want a dairy-free salad.
Olive Oil & Vinegar: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor. In place of red wine vinegar, try balsamic or apple cider vinegar, or even lemon juice for a fresh kick.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch in Your Green Beans?
To keep your green beans crisp and vibrant, it’s all about the blanching method. Blanching brightens the color and preserves that fresh snap. Here are the steps:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. This is essential for flavor!
- Add the green beans and cook for just 3-4 minutes—don’t overdo it!
- Transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water immediately after cooking. This “shocks” them and stops the cooking process, keeping them bright green.
- After cooling, drain well and pat dry to avoid excess water in your salad.
With these steps, you’ll have perfectly crunchy green beans every time! Enjoy creating this colorful salad!
How to Make Easy Green Bean and Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed red and yellow for color)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh chopped oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble, plus optionally, you may chill it for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. It’s quick, simple, and great for any meal!
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 carefully. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp. This keeps them crunchy!
2. Ice Water Bath:
As soon as they are cooked, drain the beans and quickly plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and helps maintain their vibrant color. After a few minutes, drain them again and gently pat dry with paper towels.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. This colorful mix is the heart of your salad!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This zesty dressing will bring all the flavors together.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and gently toss everything together. Make sure all the ingredients get coated well.
6. Season and Garnish:
Take a moment to taste your salad. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for an extra pop of flavor and color!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve it right away if you’re ready to dig in, or you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors blend. This salad is perfect as a light dish or a side for any meal. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Green Bean and Feta Salad
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just be sure to thaw them completely and blanch briefly in boiling water (1-2 minutes) to retain some crunch. Pat them dry before mixing with the other ingredients.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the green beans may lose their crunch over time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as diced bell peppers, cucumber, or even avocado for added creaminess. Just be mindful of balancing flavors and textures!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese, or substitute it with a vegan feta alternative made from nuts or tofu. This way, you keep the creamy texture while making it plant-based!
