Introduction
Feta, green beans, and potatoes come together in this delightful salad that balances creamy and crunchy textures while packing a nutritious punch. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is vibrant and flavorful, making it a great addition to any table. It highlights simple ingredients that work beautifully together, and can be easily tossed together in a short amount of time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 pound green beans, trimmed
– 1 pound new potatoes, halved
– 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing the potatoes and green beans thoroughly. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Trim the ends off the green beans.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the potato pieces and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until fork-tender.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
While the potatoes are cooking, in another pot, bring water to a boil for the green beans. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
Step 4: Prepare the Salad Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly. In a large bowl, mix the cooked potatoes, green beans, and crumbled feta cheese.
Step 6: Add Dressing and Toss Salad
Pour the salad dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Notes
Note 1: Variations
For added flavor, consider including other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or olives.
Note 2: Storage
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.
Cook techniques
Blanching Green Beans
Blanching is a cooking technique where green beans are briefly boiled and then immediately placed in ice water to stop the cooking process. This method helps maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Roasting Potatoes
Roasting potatoes involves cooking them in the oven at high temperatures, allowing for a crispy exterior and a soft interior. It’s important to cut the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Making a Vinaigrette
A vinaigrette is a mixture of oil and vinegar used as a dressing or marinade. For a balanced vinaigrette, use three parts oil to one part vinegar and add seasonings to taste.
Mashing Ingredients
Mashing involves using a fork or potato masher to combine ingredients smoothly. This technique is often used for potatoes in salads, creating a creamy texture that binds the components together.
FAQ
How do I know when the green beans are properly blanched?
The green beans should be bright green and tender-crisp after boiling for a short time, usually 2-3 minutes, followed by immediate cooling in ice water.
What type of potatoes work best for roasting?
Starchy potatoes like Russets provide a fluffy interior, while waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds will hold their shape better. Both types can yield delicious roasted results.
Can I substitute other ingredients in the vinaigrette?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of vinegar (like balsamic or red wine) and add herbs, garlic, or mustard for additional flavor.
Should I mash the potatoes before or after roasting?
In this recipe, it’s best to roast the potatoes first for crispiness and then mash them to combine with the other ingredients.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or even as a light stand-alone dish. It complements various flavors and can be a side or main dish.
Conclusion
This feta, green bean, and potato salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light main course. Its refreshing ingredients and vibrant colors make it an appealing addition to any meal, perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner. The balance of creamy feta with the crunch of green beans and the heartiness of potatoes creates a satisfying dish that is both nutritious and delicious.
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