Marinated Green Bean & Cheese Salad 🥗
Overview:
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of this Marinated Green Bean & Cheese Salad! Perfect for a quick meal or a delightful side dish, this recipe combines crisp string beans with the creamy goodness of reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese, all marinated in a tangy blend of red wine vinegar, herbs, and spices. It’s easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, yet it delivers a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a vegetable-packed dish, a speedy recipe under 30 minutes, or a make-ahead option for the refrigerator, this salad has you covered!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 110.1
- Fat: 3.2g
- Saturated Fat: 1.9g
- Cholesterol: 8.9mg
- Sodium: 419.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 7.8g
- Fiber: 1.8g
- Sugar: 3.8g
- Protein: 11.7g
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| String beans | 2 cups |
| Dry mustard | 1/2 tsp |
| Red wine vinegar | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 tsp |
| Dried tarragon | 1/2 tsp |
| Fresh ground black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/2 tsp |
| Red onion | 1/2 cup |
| Reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese | 6 oz |
Instructions:
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Prepare String Beans:
- Begin by removing the ends of the string beans.
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Steam String Beans:
- Steam the string beans until they are just crispy-tender.
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Cool Beans:
- Once steamed, place the string beans under cold running water to halt the cooking process.
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Drain Beans:
- Drain the string beans thoroughly and set them aside.
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Prepare Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dry mustard with 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar. Stir until the mustard is completely dissolved.
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Mix Marinade:
- To the mustard-vinegar mixture, add the remaining red wine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, dried oregano, dried tarragon, fresh ground black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
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Combine Ingredients:
- In a non-aluminum bowl, combine the steamed string beans, chopped red onion, and cubed reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese.
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Marinate:
- Pour the prepared marinade over the string beans, onion, and cheese. Mix everything together until the marinade evenly coats the ingredients.
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Refrigerate:
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, then refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste of the salad.
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Serve:
- Once chilled, serve your Marinated Green Bean & Cheese Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light meal option. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
Final Thoughts:
This Marinated Green Bean & Cheese Salad is a delightful blend of crisp vegetables, creamy cheese, and tangy marinade, making it a perfect addition to any meal or occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a picnic, or simply craving a healthy and flavorful dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with its quick and easy preparation, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones. So, why wait? Whip up a batch of this delicious salad today and treat yourself to a burst of fresh flavors!
