Summer is here and it’s time to get creative with your salads! Today, I want to share with you a delicious and nutritious Green Bean Salad with Feta recipe that will not disappoint. This salad is not only visually appealing, but it’s also packed with flavor and health benefits.
First, let’s talk about the star ingredient – green beans. Green beans are low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. They are also a good source of plant-based protein, making them a great addition to any vegetarian or vegan diet. In this recipe, we’ll be combining green beans with feta cheese, which not only adds a nice tangy flavor but also provides a good source of calcium.
To start, blanch 2 pounds of trimmed green beans in salted boiling water for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their bright green color. Drain the green beans and pat them dry.
Next, it’s time to assemble the salad. In a large bowl, combine the green beans with 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, and 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Now, let’s talk about the walnuts. Walnuts are not only a great source of healthy fats and protein but also contain antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds. Toasting them brings out their nutty flavor and adds a pleasing crunch to the salad.
Finally, let’s not forget about the feta cheese. Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also adds a nice tangy flavor to the salad that pairs well with the other ingredients.
In conclusion, this Green Bean Salad with Feta is a delicious and nutritious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It’s also quick and easy to make, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. So, give it a try and let me know what you think!
