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Fresh Green Bean Feta Salad: Easy 5-Step Healthy Side Dish

This vibrant green bean feta salad combines crisp fresh vegetables with tangy feta cheese in a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dressing. With just five simple steps, it creates a perfect healthy side dish for summer picnics, light dinners, or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the green beans by washing them thoroughly and trimming the ends. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and blanch the green beans for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color and crunch.
  2. While the green beans cool, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Drain the green beans thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
  4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley to the bowl with the green beans. Pour about half of the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
  5. Just before serving, add the crumbled feta cheese and optional toasted nuts if using. Drizzle with remaining dressing, toss lightly, and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

For the crispiest green beans, shock them in ice water immediately after blanching. Let dressed vegetables sit for 10-15 minutes before adding feta to allow flavors to meld while keeping cheese from becoming too soft. Pack dressing separately for picnics and toss just before serving.