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Vibrant green bean salad with feta, almonds, and red pepper flakes in a white bowl.

This vibrant green bean salad features crisp-tender green beans, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta, all tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to holiday meals.
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Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Healthy, Vegetarian
Calories: 270
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup sliced almonds
  • 1 pound green beans, trimmed and cut into 2 to 3-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, divided
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, divided
  • 3 to 4 leaves fresh basil, torn or chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon zest from about 1/2 lemon, for garnish
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Mixing bowls (small and medium)
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Serving bowl or platter

Method
 

  1. Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 minutes, then reduce to medium-low and continue until golden (1–3 more minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. In the same skillet over medium-low heat, add green beans, 1/4 cup water, and 1/4 tsp salt. Cover and cook 7–10 minutes, until almost tender-crisp. Remove lid, increase heat to medium-high, and cook until water evaporates (2–5 minutes). Remove from heat.
  3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, remaining salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing.
  4. Once green beans have cooled slightly, pour the dressing over them. Add cooled almonds and half the feta. Gently toss to coat.
  5. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Top with remaining feta, fresh basil, and lemon zest. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Notes

Use fresh green beans for best texture. Substitute almonds with walnuts, pine nuts, or pecans. Feta can be swapped for goat cheese, cotija, or Parmesan. Add cherry tomatoes, red onions, or bell peppers for more flavor and color. For a vegan version, omit feta. Prepare green beans and dressing in advance but combine just before serving to maintain freshness.