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Green Bean Salad with Bacon, Pecans, Cranberries, and Feta

Green Bean Salad with Bacon, Pecans, Cranberries, and Feta Bliss

This Green Bean Salad with Bacon, Pecans, Cranberries, and Feta is a vibrant, gluten-free side dish that combines fresh ingredients with a zesty dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • 1/3 cup olive oil Use extra virgin olive oil for better flavor.
  • 1 large fresh lemon Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for optimal taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Whole grain mustard can be used for a different texture.
  • 2 tablespoons honey Adjust the amount based on personal preference.
Salad
  • 1 pound fresh green beans Fresh green beans are recommended over canned for best texture.
  • 4 strips cooked bacon Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon can be used for lower fat options.
  • 1 cup toasted pecans Toast pecans in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 cup dried cranberries Dried cherries or raisins work well too.
  • 1 cup feta cheese Crumbled goat cheese can be used as an alternative.

Equipment

  • Mason Jar
  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • large serving bowl
  • Clean kitchen towel

Method
 

Salad Preparation
  1. In a medium mason jar, combine olive oil, the juice of the fresh lemon, Dijon mustard, and honey. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until all ingredients are well emulsified and form a smooth dressing. Set aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add fresh green beans and blanch for 3 to 5 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking, then drain and pat dry.
  3. In a small bowl, add toasted pecans. Drizzle with honey and toss to coat evenly.
  4. In a large serving bowl, combine blanched green beans with half of the dressing. Gently toss to coat. Add coated pecans, cooked bacon, dried cranberries, and feta cheese. Stir gently to mix without mashing the feta.
  5. Before serving, drizzle remaining dressing over the salad and give it one final gentle toss.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure not to overblanch the green beans. Mix components right before serving for freshness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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