Green Beans with Ricotta Salata Recipe
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 15 minutes
🥗 Servings: 2
Description:
Tender fresh string beans are elevated with the delicate flavors of fresh basil leaves and the creamy richness of ricotta salata, all enveloped in a tangy homemade mustard vinaigrette. This vibrant dish is perfect for a light lunch or a savory snack, bringing the essence of summer to your table in under 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 8 ounces string beans
- 1 ounce ricotta cheese (substitute with feta if desired)
- 10 fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Instructions:
-
Prepare the String Beans:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt.
- Add the string beans to the boiling water and cook for about 4 minutes, until just tender.
- Drain the beans and immediately immerse them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Once cooled, drain the beans again, pat them dry with paper towels, and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- Crumble the ricotta cheese over the string beans in the mixing bowl.
- Tear the fresh basil leaves into small pieces and add them to the bowl with the beans and cheese.
-
Prepare the Mustard Vinaigrette:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, olive oil, remaining 1/8 teaspoon of salt, and fresh ground black pepper until the oil is emulsified and the ingredients are well combined.
-
Dress the Salad:
- Pour the prepared mustard vinaigrette over the string beans, ricotta cheese, and basil leaves in the mixing bowl.
- Gently toss everything together until the beans are evenly coated with the vinaigrette.
-
Serve:
- Transfer the dressed green beans to a serving dish or individual plates.
- Garnish with additional torn basil leaves if desired.
- Enjoy immediately as a delightful lunch or snack, embracing the fresh flavors of summer with each bite!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 151.6
- Total Fat: 12.2g
- Saturated Fat: 2.6g
- Cholesterol: 7.5mg
- Sodium: 1916mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8.7g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 1.6g
- Protein: 3.8g
Recipe Notes:
- If ricotta salata is not available, feel free to substitute it with crumbled feta cheese for a similarly delicious variation.
- This recipe is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any summer gathering, offering a savory and refreshing option that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress even beginner cooks.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more or less salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve this dish alongside grilled meats or as a refreshing side to complement any meal.
