Green Bean and Feta Salad

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Vibrant, crisp, and full of flavor, Green Bean and Feta Salad is the ultimate side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own. This dish balances the earthiness of tender green beans with the tangy richness of feta cheese, complemented by the fresh bite of red onions and a hint of dill. It’s a salad that feels fancy enough for guests but is simple enough to whip up on a weeknight.

What sets this salad apart is its versatility. Serve it warm, cold, or at room temperature, and it still delivers a punch of Mediterranean flavor. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, prepping ahead for lunch, or pairing it with grilled chicken or fish, this Green Bean and Feta Salad is always a refreshing choice.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring out the best texture and flavor in this salad, using the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Large Pot: Perfect for blanching green beans quickly, ensuring they remain crisp and vibrant in color.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl helps in tossing the green beans with feta, onions, herbs, and dressing evenly.
• Colander or Strainer: Essential for draining the green beans after blanching to stop the cooking process.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For clean, thin slices of red onion and trimming the green beans.
• Salad Tongs or Serving Spoons: To gently combine ingredients without breaking up the tender beans or crumbling the feta too much.

With these tools on hand, you’ll not only speed up the process but also preserve the integrity and flavor of each component in the salad.

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Ingredients for the Green Bean and Feta Salad

• Fresh Green Beans: The star of the salad—bright, crisp, and naturally sweet when blanched to perfection.
• Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the green beans and enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Red Onion: Offers a sharp, slightly sweet crunch that cuts through the richness of the feta.
• Fresh Dill: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note that ties everything together beautifully.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and helps carry the flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Balances the fat in the cheese and oil with bright acidity.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasoning to heighten and harmonize all the flavors.

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How To Make the Green Bean and Feta Salad

Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add trimmed green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and lock in the color.

Step 2: Prep the Red Onions and Herbs

While the beans are cooling, thinly slice the red onion and finely chop the fresh dill. This ensures they blend smoothly into the salad without overpowering the bite.

Step 3: Drain and Dry the Beans

Remove the beans from the ice bath, drain well, and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to avoid a watery salad.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss the green beans with red onions, crumbled feta, and chopped dill. Add a generous drizzle of olive oil and squeeze of lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Let It Sit (Optional)

Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and softens the onions slightly.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Green Bean and Feta Salad

This salad is a dream when it comes to versatility. Serve it freshly tossed at room temperature for peak flavor or chilled straight from the fridge for a cool, refreshing bite. It’s a great sidekick to grilled meats, roast chicken, seafood, or even a simple quiche.

For storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, though the feta may soften and blend into the dressing. If making ahead, hold off on the lemon juice and feta until just before serving to maintain optimal texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of green beans should I use?

Fresh green beans are best for this salad, especially when they’re firm and vibrant. French green beans (haricots verts) work beautifully too for a more delicate texture.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans in a pinch. Be sure to thaw and blanch them quickly, then follow the same chilling and drying process to retain a nice texture.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese or crumbled cotija can provide a similar tangy bite. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based feta-style cheese.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Just keep the dressing and feta separate until just before eating to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, flaked salmon, or even chickpeas are great additions to turn this side into a full meal.

Do I need to serve it cold?

Not at all. It’s delicious slightly warm or at room temperature too, making it a flexible dish for any season.

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Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you enjoyed this fresh Green Bean and Feta Salad, you’ll love these other vibrant and flavorful ideas from the Life With Olivia kitchen:

• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells – creamy and comforting with a touch of green.
• Hearty Vegetarian Tortellini Soup – perfect for a light but satisfying meal.
• Soft and Fluffy Homemade Naan Bread – ideal as a side or for scooping up salad bites.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot – pair it with your green bean salad for a complete dinner.
• Zucchini Carrot Oatmeal Muffins – a wholesome finish to your plate.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra herbs? Try it with grilled shrimp? I’d love to hear your twist!

For more fresh and delicious daily recipes, follow along on my Pinterest: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

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