Cold Green Bean Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Are you looking for a refreshing and healthy salad to add to your summer menu? Look no further than this delicious cold green bean salad with lemon vinaigrette. It’s the perfect combination of crisp green beans, tangy lemon, and savory flavors that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for entertaining or meal prepping.
Why choose green beans?
Green beans are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that promote good health. Incorporating green beans into your diet can help improve digestion, support heart health, and boost your immune system. Plus, they add a vibrant pop of color to any dish!
The benefits of a cold salad
When it comes to salads, the options are endless. But why choose a cold salad over a warm one? A cold salad, like this green bean salad, is not only refreshing but also helps to preserve the nutritional value of the ingredients. The crunchiness of the green beans and the zesty lemon vinaigrette create a delightful contrast that will awaken your taste buds.
How to prepare the green beans
To make this cold green bean salad, start by washing the green beans thoroughly and trimming off the ends. Then, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until they are crisp-tender. After blanching, transfer the green beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant green color. Once cooled, drain the green beans and pat them dry.
Making the lemon vinaigrette
The star of this salad is the tangy and refreshing lemon vinaigrette. To make the vinaigrette, simply whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. The acidity of the lemon juice pairs perfectly with the earthy green beans, creating a harmonious flavor combination.
Assembling the salad
Once the green beans are prepared and the vinaigrette is ready, it’s time to assemble the salad. In a large bowl, combine the green beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and chopped fresh herbs of your choice. Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Allow the flavors to meld together by refrigerating the salad for at least an hour before serving.
This cold green bean salad with lemon vinaigrette is the perfect addition to any summer meal. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it as a light and refreshing main course. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and blanch them before assembling the salad.
2. Can I make the salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
3. Can I substitute the lemon vinaigrette with another dressing?
While the lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing citrus flavor, you can certainly use a different dressing if you prefer. Try a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy herb dressing for a different twist.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Of course! Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes. Get creative and make it your own!
5. Can I serve this salad warm?
While this recipe is specifically designed as a cold salad, you can certainly enjoy it warm if you prefer. Simply skip the step of chilling the salad before serving.
6. Can I use different herbs in the salad?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor to this salad. Try using basil, parsley, or cilantro for a different taste.
7. Can I add protein to the salad?
If you want to make this salad a complete meal, you can definitely add some protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu would be great additions.
8. Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check the labels of any condiments or dressings you use to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
In conclusion, this cold green bean salad with lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing and healthy option for any occasion. Its crisp green beans, tangy lemon vinaigrette, and colorful ingredients make it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a light and nutritious meal, this salad is sure to be a hit.
Cold Green Bean Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- Ice , as needed
- 1 pound of freshly trimmed green beans
- 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste
- 1 pinch of sugar , or more to taste
- 2 ounces of crumbled soft goat cheese
- ¼ cup of toasted sliced almonds
Instructions
- Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice water and set it aside.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add green beans to the boiling water and blanch them until they are just tender-crisp, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes. Make sure not to overcook them.
- Drain the green beans and immediately transfer them to the ice bath to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar.
- Drain the green beans well and gently pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent the dressing from becoming diluted.
- Place the drained green beans in a bowl and drizzle them with the prepared vinaigrette. Toss gently to ensure that the beans are evenly coated.
- Transfer the tossed green beans to a serving dish.
- Garnish the dish with crumbled goat cheese and almonds.
