Green Beans With Feta And Basil
A vibrant and fresh green bean salad with tangy feta, fragrant basil, and a zesty vinaigrette, perfect for light gatherings or weeknight sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam green beans until tender-crisp, approximately 4 minutes.
- Plunge the beans into ice water to stop the cooking process, then drain.
- In a large bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- Add the cooled green beans, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped basil to the bowl.
- Gently toss all ingredients to combine and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice to the vinaigrette. If fresh basil isn't available, try substituting with parsley or mint for a different twist. For a creamier texture, use a thicker feta or add a dollop of Greek yogurt. Make sure to not overcook the green beans; they should remain vibrant and slightly crisp.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for any meal. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner. It also complements Mediterranean recipes beautifully, such as a refreshing cucumber salad or a hearty grain dish. Serve alongside crusty bread for a satisfying lunch or picnic option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover green beans with feta and basil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently steam or microwave them until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the beans mushy and the feta lose its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans With Feta And Basil contains roughly 124 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 638mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking. Since they are pre-cooked, reduce the steaming time to about 2 minutes to avoid mushiness.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute, crumbled goat cheese or ricotta salata can provide a similar tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu mixed with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make this dish heartier, consider adding some cooked quinoa or farro. These grains will not only add texture but also increase the nutritional value. You can also mix in roasted chickpeas for added protein.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).