If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, look no further than this Mediterranean Green Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe. It combines crisp green beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese, all brought together with fragrant herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Whether you’re looking for a light side to brighten up a weeknight meal or a stunning salad to impress guests, this recipe is a delightful and wholesome choice that always hits the spot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal tray holds several fresh vegetables and herbs arranged in groups on a white marbled surface. On the left, a white oval dish is filled with small round tomatoes in yellow, orange, and red shades, with a few green herb sprigs placed on and around them. Behind the dish, there are three larger greenish-brown striped tomatoes, and a single bulb of garlic sits on the top right edge of the tray. To the right side of the tray, there is a pile of long, fresh green beans, topped with more green herb sprigs. At the top right corner of the tray sits a small silver tin container of olive oil labeled FRUTTATO. The tray is placed over a soft blue cloth with a leaf pattern. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this salad lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component plays a special role: the green beans offer a satisfying crunch and bright green color, the cherry tomatoes add a juicy sweetness, and the creamy feta brings a salty, tangy contrast that elevates the whole dish.

1 lb. green beans, ends trimmed: Fresh green beans provide that essential crisp-tender texture.
2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half: Juicy and sweet, these bring a burst of vibrant red color.
1 clove garlic, crushed: Adds a subtle punch of savory aroma without overpowering.
1 tbsp fresh herbs (thyme and oregano leaves): They infuse the salad with classic Mediterranean earthiness.
1/4 tsp flaky sea salt: Enhances all the flavors with a delicate crunch.
1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper: Adds a gentle, warm spice to balance the freshness.
2 tbsp really good olive oil: A rich, fruity olive oil ties the salad together beautifully.
1/4 cup feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, the salty feta creates the perfect flavor contrast.

How to Make Mediterranean Green Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe

Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the green beans and let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re crispy tender—just cooked enough to still hold a nice snap. Use tongs to transfer them immediately to a bowl filled with ice water. This shocking step halts the cooking process, locking in that brilliant green shade and crunch.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinated Tomatoes

While your green beans cool, slice the cherry tomatoes in half or quarters. This rustic mix of sizes adds lovely texture variety throughout the salad. Toss the tomatoes with crushed garlic, fresh thyme and oregano leaves, flaky sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a generous 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Gently mix until every tomato is glistening in the flavorful marinade. Taste and decide if you want to add a splash of vinegar for acidity—though many prefer this salad with just the natural brightness of the ingredients.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

On a large serving plate, arrange the cooled green beans as the base. Spoon the marinated cherry tomatoes over, then scatter crumbled feta cheese generously on top. Add a few extra fresh herbs for that pretty finishing touch and drizzle with more olive oil and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and texture contrast.

How to Serve Mediterranean Green Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe

A white plate holds a fresh salad arranged in two main layers. The bottom layer is made of whole, bright green beans spread evenly across the plate with a shiny, fresh texture. On top of them, there is a colorful mix of halved tomatoes in red, yellow, and green shades, showing their juicy, smooth inside. Small white crumbles of cheese are scattered over the tomatoes, adding a soft texture contrast. A silver spoon with a dark brown handle rests on the left side of the plate. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with a few drops of oil glistening around the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a final flourish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top to brighten the presentation and add a fresh herbal note. Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds also provide a delightful crunch and nutty twist that pairs beautifully with the feta.

Side Dishes

This salad is a fantastic companion to grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or fish. It also shines alongside a feta-stuffed pita or a warm loaf of crusty bread, soaking up all that flavorful olive oil and tomato juice.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in a large bowl for a casual family meal, or plate it artistically on individual plates for a dinner party. Layer it over crisp lettuce for extra greens or mix in some roasted chickpeas to transform it into a more substantial dish. The vibrant colors make it a natural centerpiece on any Mediterranean-inspired table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

While the Mediterranean Green Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe tastes best fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep in mind that the tomatoes will release more juice over time, which may soften the green beans slightly.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the delicate nature of the ingredients, especially the fresh tomatoes and feta, which can become mushy or grainy after thawing.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. Simply give it a gentle stir before serving leftover portions.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans for this salad?

Frozen green beans can work in a pinch but fresh green beans provide the best texture and color for this salad. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly before blanching.

Is it okay to use a different cheese instead of feta?

Feta’s salty, tangy profile is integral to this dish, but you could experiment with cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta salata for subtle variations in flavor and creaminess.

Can I prepare this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative or toasted nuts to keep the texture contrast.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?

Dried herbs are okay in a pinch—use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. However, fresh herbs really elevate the salad’s brightness and authenticity.

How long does this salad keep its best flavor?

For optimal taste and texture, enjoy within the day of making it. Flavors meld wonderfully but the green beans can lose their crispness after a day or two.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Green Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both fresh and comforting at the same time. It’s quick to make, uses wonderfully simple ingredients, and offers a palette of flavors that never fail to impress. Whether as a side or a light lunch, I highly encourage you to give this vibrant salad a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to summer salad!