Green Beans Salad Recipe
Green Beans Salad is a delightful and healthy side dish that brings a burst of flavors and textures. In this simple, no-onion/garlic recipe, crunchy green beans are paired with aromatic spices and garnished with lime juice and slivered almonds, creating a refreshing and satisfying dish. The addition of desiccated coconut offers a subtle richness, while the spiced tempering (tadka) elevates the overall taste, making it a versatile and vibrant option for any occasion. This dish is quick to prepare, requiring just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cook time, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or for impressing guests at potlucks and dinner parties.
The beauty of this Green Beans Salad lies in its flexibilityโyou can easily substitute fresh coconut for desiccated coconut and choose your favorite nuts for garnish. Whether you use cashew nuts, pine nuts, or slivered almonds, the addition of these nuts enhances the flavor profile with a satisfying crunch. Fresh, tender green beans should be the star of this dish for the best results, ensuring that the salad stays crisp and vibrant. With a balance of simple ingredients that are commonly found in the pantry, this recipe is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
This Green Beans Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes and is perfect to serve alongside mains like Penne Pasta Arrabiata or to finish with a sweet treat like Mascarpone Fruit Dessert for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green beans (French Beans) | 250 grams (ends trimmed and cut in half) |
| Dessicated Coconut | 2 tablespoons |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 7 leaves |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2, broken into pieces |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Slivered Almonds (Badam) | For garnish |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Instructions
-
Steam the Green Beans
Begin by steaming the green beans (French beans) for 4 to 5 minutes until they are just cooked yet remain crunchy. The beans should retain their vibrant green color and texture. Once steamed, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool. -
Toast the Desiccated Coconut
In a small pan, toast the desiccated coconut over medium heat for about 1 minute, or until it just begins to turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn it. Set it aside to cool, then add the toasted coconut to the cooled green beans in a mixing bowl. -
Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter, and then quickly add the cumin seeds. Sautรฉ the seeds for a few seconds, and then add the dry red chillies. Stir-fry briefly before removing the pan from the heat. Now, add the hing (asafoetida) and curry leaves to the panโbe cautious as the hot oil may splatter. Stir for a few seconds, letting the spices release their aroma. -
Combine Everything
Add the tempering (tadka) to the steamed green beans and coconut mixture. Add salt and lemon juice to taste, then toss everything together until well combined. Allow the flavors to meld for about 30 minutes. This resting time enhances the taste and makes the salad even more flavorful. -
Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, garnish the Green Beans Salad with slivered almonds for a delightful crunch. This simple yet delicious salad is now ready to be enjoyed.
Allergen Information:
- Nuts: This recipe includes slivered almonds, so it is not suitable for those with nut allergies. You can substitute with seeds (like sunflower seeds) if desired.
- Coconut: Contains desiccated coconut, which may not be suitable for individuals with coconut sensitivities.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is 100% vegetarian and free from animal-based products.
- Gluten-Free: There are no gluten-containing ingredients in this recipe, making it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Tips and Advice:
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder salad, you can reduce or omit the dry red chillies. Alternatively, add more for a spicier kick.
- Use Fresh Beans: For the best texture, always use fresh, tender green beans. They should snap when bent and have a vibrant color.
- Make Ahead: This salad is a great make-ahead dish. Prepare it in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors fully develop.
Conclusion:
Green Beans Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Its vibrant mix of textures, with crunchy beans, nutty coconut, and the warmth of spices, makes it an irresistible appetizer or side dish. Versatile enough to be customized with different nuts or herbs, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a casual meal or a festive gathering, this dish will be a crowd-pleaser every time.
