Green Bean Salad
Are you looking for a fresh and vibrant dish to brighten up your meal? This green bean salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Tossed with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a zesty dressing, this salad is perfect as a side or a light main course. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to any dining table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes for cooking.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of this green bean salad contains approximately 150 calories, 8g of protein, 10g of carbohydrates, and 10g of fat (healthy fats from olive oil and nuts). This nutritional information is based on a 1-cup serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the trimmed green beans to the boiling water.
3. Blanch the beans for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
5. Once cooled, drain the beans and pat them dry with a towel.
6. In a large bowl, combine the green beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
8. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
9. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this salad by substituting the pine nuts with walnuts or almonds. For a lighter version, swap the balsamic vinegar for lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
Serving and Pairings
This green bean salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a picnic spread. It also works well with crusty bread or as a topping for quinoa or rice bowls.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover green bean salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It is best enjoyed cold, but you can also let it come to room temperature before serving. This salad does not freeze well due to the texture of the beans.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the green beans can lead to mushiness; aim for tender-crisp.
- Not salting the water when boiling the beans can affect flavor.
- Forgetting to cool the beans in an ice bath can cause them to lose color.
- Using too much dressing can make the salad soggy; start with less and adjust.
- Skipping the toasting of nuts can result in a lack of depth in flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, vibrant green beans for the best flavor and texture.
- Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet for added crunch and nuttiness.
- Make the salad ahead of time to let the flavors meld.
- Add feta cheese for a creamy element if desired.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it chilled until serving to maintain freshness.
Is this salad vegan?
Yes, this green bean salad is completely vegan, making it suitable for plant-based diets.
What other ingredients can I add?
You can include bell peppers, carrots, or even chickpeas for extra texture and flavor.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days but is best enjoyed fresh.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used, but they may require slightly different cooking times to achieve the right texture.
Conclusion
This green bean salad is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a burst of color and flavor. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy the freshness of the ingredients and the satisfaction of a healthy dish!
Green Bean Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the beans to an ice bath to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the green beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.