Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta

This Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. With its fresh green beans, crunchy almonds, and creamy feta, this salad brings vibrant flavors and textures to your table. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a holiday feast, or just looking for a quick weeknight side dish, this salad fits the bill. Its lemony dressing adds a zesty kick, making it not only refreshing but also satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of lemon juice and fresh basil elevates the taste, creating a dish that sings with freshness.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from green beans and healthy fats from almonds, this salad is both delicious and good for you.
• Versatile Dish: It serves well as a side or can be enjoyed as a light main course on its own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: You can easily make this salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick meal option.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment will help you prepare this delightful Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for toasting almonds and cooking green beans evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking up the dressing without spills.
• Whisk: Ensures all ingredients in the dressing blend together smoothly.
• Knife: Essential for chopping green beans and tearing basil.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– ⅓ cup sliced almonds
– 1 pound green beans, trimmed and cut into 2 to 3” long pieces
– ¼ cup water
– ½ teaspoon fine sea salt, divided
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about ½ lemon)
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 small-to-medium clove garlic
– Several twists of freshly ground black pepper
– Pinch of red pepper flakes
– ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese, divided
– 3 to 4 large basil leaves, torn or chopped, for garnish
– Lemon zest from about ½ lemon, for garnish

How to Make Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta

Step 1: Toast the Almonds

1. Start with a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds.
2. Cook while stirring frequently; be cautious as they can burn quickly.
3. After about 3 minutes, reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Continue stirring until fragrant and golden on edges (about 1 to 3 more minutes).
5. Transfer the toasted almonds to a bowl to cool.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

1. In the same skillet on medium-low heat, add the green beans, water, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
2. Cover the skillet and cook while stirring occasionally until almost tender (7 to 10 minutes).
3. Remove the lid, raise heat to medium-high, and let cook until liquid evaporates (2 to 5 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Once green beans are cooked, pour in the dressing from step three.
2. Add back in the toasted almonds along with about half of the crumbled feta (reserve other half).
3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients; taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the salad mixture to a serving bowl or platter.
2. Top with remaining feta cheese and torn basil leaves.
3. Lightly grate some lemon zest over everything before serving immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta!

How to Serve Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta

This vibrant green bean salad is a delightful addition to any meal. Its fresh flavors and textures make it versatile for various occasions.

As a Standalone Dish

• Perfect for lunch: A light meal on its own, enjoy this salad with crusty bread.
• Picnic favorite: Pack it in a cooler for outdoor gatherings; it’s refreshing and easy to share.

Pairing with Grilled Proteins

• Grilled chicken: The tangy feta complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken beautifully.
• Salmon: Serve alongside grilled or baked salmon for a healthy, balanced meal.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Thanksgiving table: This salad adds color and nutrition, balancing heavier dishes.
• Summer BBQs: Its bright flavors refresh palates amid grilled meats and rich sides.

With Other Salads

• Mixed greens: Combine with your favorite mixed greens for an added texture contrast.
• Pasta salad: Pair it with a cold pasta salad for a varied texture and taste experience.

How to Perfect Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta

To make your green bean salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh beans: Look for crisp, bright green beans to ensure the best flavor and texture.
• Toast almonds carefully: Keep an eye on the almonds while toasting; they can burn quickly if left unattended.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more lemon juice or pepper to suit your preferences.
• Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the salad right after assembling it.

Best Side Dishes for Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta

This green bean salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some top recommendations:

1. Quinoa pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with herbs complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide great flavor contrast.
3. Pita bread: Soft pita is perfect for scooping up the salad, making each bite fun and interactive.
4. Greek yogurt dip: A cool dip adds creaminess that balances the acidity of the lemon dressing.
5. Chickpea stew: Hearty and filling, this stew makes for a satisfying pairing without overwhelming flavors.
6. Couscous salad: Light couscous tossed with fresh herbs enhances the Mediterranean theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

This section highlights common pitfalls when preparing Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta. Avoid these mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Overcooking the green beans: Overcooked beans become mushy and lose their vibrant color. Cook them until just tender for the best texture.
• Skipping the toasting step: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step; keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Ensure your feta is fresh, and check that your olive oil is not past its prime.
• Not tasting before serving: Always taste your salad before serving. Adjust seasoning or acidity as needed for a more balanced flavor.
• Ignoring presentation: A visually appealing dish is more inviting. Take time to arrange the salad nicely and garnish it well.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the beans and feta.
• If necessary, freeze only the cooked green beans, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add other vegetables to Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta?

You can definitely customize this salad! Consider adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.

What can I substitute for feta in this salad?

If you want a dairy-free option, try using vegan feta cheese or crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice for a similar taste.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta vegan, simply omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead but wait to dress the salad until just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Final Thoughts

This Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a light main course. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings to suit your taste!