Green Bean and Basil Salad: A Healthy and Flavorful Side Dish
Welcome to Love With Recipes, your ultimate destination for easy-to-make, delicious, and nutritious recipes! This Green Bean and Basil Salad is a delightful blend of tender green beans, aromatic fresh basil, and a simple yet flavorful dressing. Perfect for any gathering or as a quick weekday side dish, this salad is vegan, low in cholesterol, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to prepare and tastes even better when chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Let’s dive into the recipe details so you can enjoy this healthy and refreshing dish in no time.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh green beans | 1 ½ pounds | High in fiber, low in calories |
| Olive oil | ½ cup | Rich in healthy fats |
| Vinegar (white or red wine) | ½ cup | Adds tang and balances flavor |
| Fresh basil leaves | ¼ cup, chopped | Aromatic, boosts flavor naturally |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced | Contains antioxidants |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Fresh ground black pepper | To taste | Adds subtle heat and depth |
| Scallions | 2, thinly sliced | Adds crunch and mild onion flavor |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150.6 |
| Fat | 13.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 151.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6.5 g |
| Fiber | 3.1 g |
| Sugars | 1.3 g |
| Protein | 1.7 g |
Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by steaming the green beans for about 10 minutes, or until they are tender but still have a slight crunch. |
| 2 | Alternatively, you can microwave the green beans for about 4 minutes, ensuring they are evenly cooked. |
| 3 | Once cooked, set the green beans aside in a large bowl to cool slightly. |
| 4 | In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the minced garlic and mix well. |
| 5 | Pour the prepared dressing over the green beans while they are still warm to help them absorb the flavors. |
| 6 | Add the fresh basil and sliced scallions to the bowl, gently tossing everything to combine. |
| 7 | Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. For the best results, let it chill overnight to allow the flavors to intensify. |
| 8 | Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper, if needed. |
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a light, plant-based meal. Serve it cold as a refreshing side for picnics, potlucks, or everyday dinners.
Tips for Success
- Bean Selection: Opt for fresh, crisp green beans for the best flavor and texture. If fresh beans are unavailable, high-quality frozen beans can be used.
- Chilling Time: Letting the salad chill overnight enhances the flavors significantly. This is a dish that rewards patience!
- Customizations: Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, toasted almonds, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a unique twist.
Enjoy this Green Bean and Basil Salad and make it a part of your healthy eating routine! Visit Love With Recipes for more inspiring dishes that bring love to your table.
