Green Bean Salad with Bacon, Pecans, Cranberries, Feta & Lemon Honey Mustard Dressing

This Green Bean Salad is a delicious mix of flavors and textures—crisp green beans, savory bacon, crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy lemon honey mustard dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for holiday dinners, BBQs, or light summer meals, offering a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced

For the Lemon Honey Mustard Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Green Beans

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
3. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
4. After 2 minutes, drain and pat dry.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon & Toast the Pecans

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Remove bacon, drain on paper towels, and crumble once cooled.
3. In the same skillet, toast pecans for 2 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine green beans, bacon, pecans, cranberries, feta, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with the lemon honey mustard dressing and toss to coat.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

• Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

✔ With Grilled Chicken or Steak – Turns this salad into a complete meal.
✔ As a Holiday Side Dish – Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
✔ With a Bowl of Soup – A great pairing for a light lunch.

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Tips for Success

✔ Use fresh green beans – They have the best texture compared to canned or frozen.
✔ Don’t overcook the beans – Keep them tender-crisp for the best crunch.
✔ Toast the pecans – This enhances their nutty flavor.
✔ Use quality feta cheese – A good feta makes a difference in creaminess and taste.
✔ Make ahead – Prep all ingredients separately and toss together before serving.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 230
• Carbs: 14g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg

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Health Benefits

✅ Rich in Antioxidants – Green beans, cranberries, and pecans help fight inflammation.
✅ High in Fiber – Supports digestion and gut health.
✅ Healthy Fats – Olive oil and pecans provide heart-friendly fats.
✅ Good Source of Protein – Bacon, feta, and pecans add protein to keep you full.
✅ Low-Carb & Gluten-Free – Suitable for various dietary needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prep everything separately and mix before serving for the best texture.

Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Fresh is best, but you can use frozen. Just thaw and pat dry before using.

Q: What can I substitute for bacon?
A: Try turkey bacon, crispy prosciutto, or toasted sunflower seeds for a vegetarian option.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes! Simply omit feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The dressing may soak in, so toss again before serving.

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This Green Bean Salad is a flavor-packed, nutrient-rich side dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether for a holiday feast or a light summer meal, the combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone wanting more! Enjoy!