Green Bean & Quinoa Salad Recipe

Cook quinoa

Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve until water runs clear to remove bitterness. Combine rinsed quinoa and 2 cups water or vegetable broth in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook gently for 12–15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and transfer to a large bowl to cool slightly.

Blanch green beans

Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the trimmed and cut green beans and cook 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer beans to an ice bath (bowl of iced water) to stop cooking and preserve color. After 2–3 minutes, drain and pat dry with a towel.

Once quinoa is slightly cooled (warm or room temperature), add the blanched green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, and chopped parsley to the bowl with quinoa. If using, fold in crumbled feta gently.

Make dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup), 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until emulsified and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or lemon as desired.

Pour about two-thirds of the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Reserve the remaining dressing to the side in case you want more moisture or tang.

Allow the salad to sit 10–15 minutes at room temperature so flavors meld. If chilling, cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes; remove 10–15 minutes before serving to take the chill off.

Serve with balsamic glaze

Transfer salad to a serving bowl or platter. Drizzle the reserved dressing if needed, then finish with 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze drizzled over the top in a decorative pattern. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 24 hours. Toss gently before serving if chilled.