Green Bean Salad Recipe

This vibrant Green Bean Salad is a refreshing blend of crisp textures and bright flavors, perfect for any occasion. Tender green beans, blanched to perfection in just two minutes, are paired with a zesty dressing that dances on your palate. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, balanced by the smooth richness of toasted almonds and the tangy pop of cherry tomatoes. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet light, making it an ideal side or a quick, wholesome snack.

With only 15 minutes of prep, this salad is as effortless as it is delicious. The combination of fresh herbs and a hint of garlic adds depth, while the colorful ingredients make it a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this salad brings a burst of freshness to your table. It’s proof that simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create something truly extraordinary.

Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients

• 1 pound green beans, trimmed (look for crisp, bright green beans)
• ½ head radicchio, sliced into strips (substitute with arugula or spinach if preferred)
• Scant ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (soak in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness)
• Honey Mustard Dressing, for drizzling (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 ounces goat cheese (substitute with feta or blue cheese for a different flavor)
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (toast for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds (toast for added depth)
• ¼ cup tarragon, chopped (substitute with parsley or dill if unavailable)
• Flaky sea salt, to taste (Maldon or similar works great)

Simple Steps to a Vibrant Salad

1. Prepare the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Fill a bowl with ice water and set it nearby. Blanch the green beans in the boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to the ice water to cool completely (about 15 seconds). Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Combine the base: In a large bowl, toss the blanched green beans with the radicchio, red onion, and a few spoonfuls of the honey mustard dressing until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the salad: Transfer the mixture to a serving platter. Top with small dollops of goat cheese, followed by the chopped walnuts, sliced almonds, and tarragon.
4. Finish and serve: Drizzle with additional dressing, season with flaky sea salt to taste, and serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions

This Green Bean Salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a hearty grain bowl. For a light lunch, serve it alongside crusty bread or a slice of quiche. It’s also a standout addition to potlucks or picnics—just pack the dressing separately and toss before serving.

Mix It Up: Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this salad! Swap the goat cheese for feta or blue cheese, or use pecans instead of walnuts and almonds. For a vegan version, skip the cheese and add avocado for creaminess. You can also substitute arugula or spinach for the radicchio if you prefer a milder green.

Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks

To save time, prep the green beans and dressing a day ahead. Store the blanched beans in the fridge and toss them with the other ingredients just before serving. If you’re short on time, skip the blanching step and use fresh, crisp green beans for a raw salad variation.

Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. If the beans lose their crunch, a quick drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt can revive them.

Essential Tools: Equipment Guidance

You’ll need a large pot for blanching the green beans and a bowl of ice water to cool them quickly. A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for slicing the radicchio and onion. For easy tossing, use a large mixing bowl, and a platter or serving dish to arrange the salad beautifully.

Green Bean Salad

Amy

This vibrant Green Bean Salad is a refreshing blend of crisp textures and bright flavors, perfect for any occasion. With only 15 minutes of prep, this salad is as effortless as it is delicious.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 minutes mins

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound green beans, trimmed
• ½ head radicchio, sliced into strips
• Scant ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• Honey Mustard Dressing, for drizzling
• 2 ounces goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
• ¼ cup tarragon
• Flaky sea salt

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and set a bowl of ice water nearby. Drop the green beans into the boiling water and blanch for 2 minutes. Remove the beans and immediately immerse in the ice water long enough to cool completely, about 15 seconds. Drain and place on paper towels to dry.
• Transfer the beans to a bowl and toss with the radicchio, onion, and a few spoonfuls of the dressing. Arrange on a platter and top with small dollops of goat cheese, the walnuts, almonds, and tarragon. Drizzle with more dressing, season to taste with flaky salt, and serve.

Keyword fresh vegetables, green beans, healthy salad, salad recipe, vinaigrette dressing

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