Description
This Summer Cold Green Bean Salad is a crisp and refreshing dish bursting with seasonal flavors. Tender green beans are perfectly blanched and combined with juicy cherry tomatoes, sharp red onions, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon vinaigrette for a light and vibrant side. It’s an ideal, easy-to-prepare salad for picnics, summer barbecues, or any warm-weather meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Additional
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese, optional
Lemon Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until they become tender-crisp, retaining their bright green color and snap.
- Cool the Beans: Drain the green beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking process. After they have cooled completely, drain again and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is emulsified and well combined.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, place the cooled green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped basil. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Optional Feta Addition: If desired, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and gently incorporate it.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and serve cold.
Notes
- Do not overcook the green beans; they should remain crisp to retain texture and color.
- Add toasted almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- This salad can be prepared several hours ahead of serving, making it great for gatherings.
- Omit feta cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American