Green Bean Salad with Feta & Almonds (Lemon-Dijon Vinaigrette)

This green bean salad is a flavor-packed side dish perfect for any occassion! Made with crisp-tender green beans, creamy feta & crunchy almonds all tossed in a bright lemon-dijon vinaigrette. It’s easy to pepare, full of fresh flavors & textures + ready in under 30 minutes!

I adore green beans. But I’ll be honest, I usually cook them the same way with the same seasonings every single time…so I was in desperate need of something new! Cue in this easy green bean salad!

It was love at first bite for me – tangy, creamy, crunchy and completely irresistible. I couldn’t wait to share this one! Perfectly cooked tender green beans, lots of crumbled feta and crunchy toasted almonds all tossed in a dilly lemon-dijon dressing – I mean, doesn’t that just sound incredible?! (And like the perfect Easter side dish?!)

It’s fresh, flavorful and the easiest way to elevate your everday vegetable side dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Green beans: Fresh crisp green beans are the star of the show here! They’re blanched until crisp-tender for the perfect texture.

Feta cheese: Adds a creamy tangy bite that pairs beautifully with the lemon vinaigrette. (Use a block of feta for the best flavor and texture.)

Sliced almonds: I LOVE the crunch these add! You’ll be lightly toasting them for even more flavor.

Olive oil: I always suggest using a “light tasting olive oil” for dressings – it doesn’t overpower the other flavors/ingredients. (We use Bertolli Extra Light Tasting Olive Oil for ours.)

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice bring brightness and zest to the salad.

Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a subtle tang and helps emulsify the ingredients together. Use smooth dijon mustard for the best results.

Fresh dill: Adds a fresh herby finish that perfectly compliments the green beans.

Garlic: Minced garlic brings depth and flavor to the dressing.

Seasonings: Salt and black pepper are used to enhance the dressing and bring out all the flavors.

Tip: Using fresh ingredients – especially lemon juice and fresh dill – make a HUGE difference in this healthy green bean salad!

How To Make A Green Bean Salad

1. Toast the almonds. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the almonds out on the pan and bake for 5-6 minutes (until lightly golden). Set aside once done.

2. Blanch the green beans. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes. Use a strainer to immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath. Let them chill in the bath for 5 minutes then pat them dry with a paper towel.

3. Make the vinaigrette. Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, fresh dill, dijon mustard and garlic together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Toss. Add the green beans, feta cheese and most of the toasted almonds to a large bowl. Pour the vinaigrette over the top and toss until the salad is fully coated.

5. Serve. Arrange the salad on a serving platter and garnish with extra crumbled feta cheese and the remaining toasted almonds. Serve immediately.

Make Ahead + Storing

To Make Ahead: Blanch the green beans and mix the vinaigrette at least 1-2 days in advance. I’d suggest waiting to toss the salad together until right before serving so the almonds stay crunchy.

To Store: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigeratror. The salad should stay fresh for 2-3 days. Before serving again, lightly retoss the salad, taste and adjust the seasonings, if needed.

Serving Suggestions

I love the versatility of this fresh green bean salad! It’s flavors and textures add a bright zesty touch to any entrée you pair it with. Here are some delicious ideas to help get you started:

• Pair with grilled proteins! Serve with grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp or even steak for a well-rounded meal.
• Great for summer meals! A refreshing addition to any BBQ, picnic or outdoor gathering. We love serving this with burgers or kabobs!
• Perfect for holiday spreads! It’s a lighter alternative to traditional sides for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter dinners.
• Add to grain bowls! Toss it over your favorite rice bowl for a boost of fresh flavor.

Why you’ll love this green bean salad recipe

• Bright zesty flavors! Crisp green beans + salty feta + tangy lemon-dijon vinaigrette make this green bean salad anything but boring.
• A quick & easy side dish! Simple ingredients, minimal prep & ready in around 30 minutes – it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last minute sides.
• Pairs well with everything! It’s fresh flavors compliment a variety of entrées – grilled chicken, salmon, steak or even your favorite pasta dishes!
• Perfect for any occasion! It’s great for weeknight dinners, summer BBQ’s, picnics or even holidays spreads like Thanksgiving and Easter.

More side dish recipes you might like:

• Crispy Garlic Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
• Honey Roasted Carrots with Feta & Dill
• Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes & Balsamic
• Grilled Asparagus Salad with Lemon & Feta

[Made one of my recipes? Tag my Instagram @kalefornia_kravings & leave a review in the comments – I love seeing what you create!]