When the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing salad to brighten your day. The Green Bean & Tomato Salad is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a vibrant dish that can complement any meal or stand alone as a light lunch. Packed with colors, flavors, and nutrients, this salad is a delightful combination of crisp green beans, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty dressing that will keep your palate excited. Let’s dive into the specifics of this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Green Bean & Tomato Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh, seasonal produce. Here are a few reasons you’ll love it:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this salad in no time.
- Nutritious: The combination of green beans and tomatoes offers a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, making this salad not only tasty but also healthy.
- Versatile: Pair it as a side dish with grilled meats, toss it with pasta, or enjoy it on its own; it fits into any meal plan effortlessly.
- Seasonal Freshness: This dish shines in summer when tomatoes are at their peak. Fresh produce means tasty and vibrant flavors in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a scrumptious Green Bean & Tomato Salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Green Beans
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes, until they are bright green and tender-crisp. You want to maintain that crisp texture!
2. Ice Bath
After boiling, quickly transfer the green beans to a bowl filled with ice water. This will stop the cooking process and help them retain their vibrant color and crunch. Let them sit for about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients
Once the green beans are cool, drain them and pat them dry. In a large bowl, combine the green beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Toss them gently to mix everything together.
4. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
5. Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top and give it another light toss.
6. Serve
Your Green Bean & Tomato Salad is now ready to serve! You can garnish it with fresh basil if desired. This salad can be served immediately or chilled for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips
This salad is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as an everyday side dish. It tastes great with grilled chicken or fish and pairs well with pasta dishes. You can also serve it alongside a crusty loaf of bread for a more filling meal.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can be kept for 2-3 days, but keep in mind that the longer it sits, the less crunchy the beans will become. If you want to preserve the texture, consider dressing only the portion you plan to eat and keeping the rest separate.
Helpful Tips
- Blanching Technique: The ice bath is crucial! It locks in that beautiful green color and keeps the beans crispy.
- Custom Flavor: Feel free to add other veggies to the mix! Bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives can bring new flavors and textures to the salad.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness!
- Seasonal Variations: In the fall, add roasted squash or in the winter, consider incorporating roasted Brussels sprouts for a seasonal twist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just follow the package instructions for blanching. However, fresh green beans will provide a better texture and flavor.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What should I do if I don’t like tomatoes?
If tomatoes aren’t your thing, try substituting them with avocados or even grilled corn for a different but equally delicious twist on the salad.
How long will this salad last in the fridge?
It can last for about 2-3 days in the fridge if stored properly in an airtight container, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can this salad be served warm?
Absolutely! While it’s traditionally served cold, you can also enjoy it warm. Simply skip the ice bath and serve it right after mixing in the dressing.
Conclusion
The Green Bean & Tomato Salad is a delightful blend of vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients that promises to please everyone at your table. It’s not only a great way to get your veggies in but also a versatile salad that adapts to any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a summer picnic, or enjoying it with a light lunch, this salad is sure to make a lasting impression. So, grab those fresh green beans and tomatoes, and get ready for a salad that’s as tasty as it is refreshing!
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Zesty Green Bean Tomato Salad Refreshing Summer Delight
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy a zesty green bean tomato salad for a refreshing summer treat Perfectly balanced flavors make it an ideal side for any meal
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 150 calories
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1 gram
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 3 grams