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If you're searching for a vibrant, refreshing salad that perfectly balances health and flavor, look no further than the Zesty Lemon Garlic Green Bean Salad. This delightful dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a burst of color to your table. Featuring crisp green beans, aromatic garlic, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients that can elevate any meal.

Lemon Garlic Green Bean Salad

Discover the vibrant Zesty Lemon Garlic Green Bean Salad, a perfect blend of health and flavor. Bursting with nutrients from fresh green beans, aromatic garlic, and tangy lemon dressing, this colorful dish is versatile for any occasion. Serve it as a refreshing side, a light lunch, or a potluck favorite. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, it's a delightful addition to your meal repertoire that will nourish your body and excite your taste buds.
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Ingredients
  

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and washed

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about half a lemon)

2 cloves garlic, minced finely

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for added creaminess)

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Blanch the Green Beans: In a large pot, bring approximately 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the trimmed green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes, until they turn a vibrant green and are crisp-tender. Once done, quickly transfer the beans to a bowl filled with ice water to halt the cooking process. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed for your palate.

      Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle the prepared lemon garlic dressing over the top of the vegetables. Gently toss everything together until the salad is well coated with the dressing.

        Add Feta and Garnish: If desired, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad for an added creamy texture. Finish off by garnishing with a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley to add color and a burst of freshness.

          Chill and Serve: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully. You can serve it either chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect light and refreshing side dish.

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

              - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the salad in a large, flat dish or individual bowls, garnished with extra parsley sprigs and a few lemon wedges on the side for a vibrant display.