Green Bean and Feta Salad

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Green Bean and Feta Salad is one of those dishes that always delivers more than you’d expect. It’s light but satisfying, crisp yet creamy, and filled with a blend of textures and flavors that turn a simple bowl of greens into something truly special. Whether you’re preparing a picnic spread or looking for a quick weekday side, this salad is a versatile go-to.

With tender-crisp green beans, salty crumbles of feta cheese, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, this salad hits every note. It’s refreshing and wholesome, perfect for warmer days when you want something vibrant on the table without much fuss. Even better, it holds up well, making it ideal for meal prepping or serving at gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Green Bean and Feta Salad

This salad brings together bright Mediterranean flavors with minimal ingredients. It requires no fancy cooking techniques and is ready in under 20 minutes. The green beans retain their snap, the feta adds a briny richness, and the lemon vinaigrette ties it all together beautifully. It’s a refreshing break from heavier sides and complements almost any main dish.

Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?

You can use frozen green beans in a pinch, but fresh green beans truly make a difference here. They offer a firmer bite and a more vibrant color that just looks more appetizing on the plate. If you do use frozen, blanch them quickly and skip any long cooking times to preserve texture.

Ingredients for the Green Bean and Feta Salad

This salad is all about a handful of clean, quality ingredients that play well together. Each one plays a role in enhancing texture and flavor.

• Fresh green beans
• Feta cheese
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Dijon mustard
• Salt
• Black pepper

The crisp green beans create the base, while crumbled feta adds creaminess and salt. Olive oil and lemon juice come together for a sharp, clean dressing. Dijon and garlic round it out with depth and tang, and a bit of salt and pepper balances everything.

How To Make the Green Bean and Feta Salad

Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a good pinch of salt. Drop the trimmed green beans into the boiling water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and lock in the color. Drain well.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans and crumbled feta. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until the salad is evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill for later.

How to Serve and Store This Salad Perfectly

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature and feeds 4 to 6 people as a side dish. It’s excellent as part of a summer spread or picnic and holds its own next to grilled meats, sandwiches, or pasta. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re making it ahead, wait to add the feta until just before serving so it stays fresh and doesn’t get mushy.

What to Serve With Green Bean and Feta Salad?

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

The juicy meatballs pair beautifully with the freshness of this salad. A match made for light yet filling meals.

Grilled Salmon

The richness of salmon is cut nicely by the tangy lemon vinaigrette and crisp beans.

Classic Caprese Salad

For a full-on fresh and summery plate, pair it with juicy tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

For a savory contrast, the juicy steak bites work great alongside this salad.

Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce

If you’re having a creamy pasta dish, this salad adds brightness and texture without overwhelming your palate.

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach

A comforting main dish with cheesy, hearty vibes that balance the crisp green beans.

Roasted Zucchini and Squash

Roast veggies meet crisp green beans for a double veggie delight that’s clean and satisfying.

Want More Salad Ideas with Fresh Flair?

If this Green Bean and Feta Salad has you hooked, explore some of these vibrant favorites next:

• Classic Caprese Salad Recipe if you love simple, elegant pairings.
• Roasted Zucchini and Squash Recipe for a roasted twist.
• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl when you’re after protein-packed freshness.
• Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce to round out a meal.
• Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach for a balanced plate.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of nuts? Maybe a pinch of chili flakes for heat?

I love seeing your twists and tips. Ask away if you have questions, and don’t forget to tag me when you share your versions!

Explore more of my fresh and wholesome recipe creations on Janet Dishes on Pinterest — your next favorite salad might just be waiting there.

Conclusion

Green Bean and Feta Salad is a celebration of clean, bold flavors that require almost no effort. It’s a reminder that the best dishes often come from keeping things simple and seasonal. Add it to your rotation and enjoy a refreshing pop of flavor any day of the week.

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