Summer Green Bean Salad Recipe – A Vibrant Vegan Delight
Indulge in the flavors of summer with this vibrant Summer Green Bean Salad! Perfect for potlucks, sunny picnics, or a simple light lunch, this recipe brings together tender green beans, zesty lemon, and aromatic dill, all topped with the delightful crunch of toasted pine nuts. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh, summery flavors.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this refreshing salad. Each ingredient has been carefully selected to bring out the best in this simple yet flavorful dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Details/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pine nuts | ½ cup | For a nutty, toasted crunch |
| Fresh green beans | 2 lbs | Trimmed and washed |
| Olive oil | 6 tbsp | Divided; use extra virgin for best flavor |
| Shallots | 8 small | Peeled and finely sliced |
| White wine vinegar | 5 tbsp | Adds a tangy kick to balance flavors |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp | For a creamy, tangy dressing |
| Spring onions (scallions) | 3 | Thinly sliced for a mild onion flavor |
| Fresh dill | ¼ cup | Finely chopped; provides fresh, herbal notes |
| Lemon zest | Zest of 1 | Adds a bright citrusy touch |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust according to preference |
Nutritional Information
This salad is light, healthy, and perfectly suited for various dietary needs. Here’s the breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 198.7 cal | A light and refreshing option |
| Fat | 16.1 g | Mainly from heart-healthy olive oil |
| Saturated Fat | 1.9 g | Minimal, keeping it healthy |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 100% cholesterol-free |
| Sodium | 17.7 mg | Low in sodium |
| Carbohydrates | 13.2 g | A good source of energy |
| Fiber | 4.4 g | Excellent for digestion |
| Sugars | 2.1 g | Naturally occurring sugars |
| Protein | 3.9 g | A nice protein boost from the beans and nuts |
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a salad that’s both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying:
| Step | Details/Techniques |
|---|---|
| 1. Toast the pine nuts: | Place the pine nuts in a dry, heavy-bottomed skillet. |
| Toast over medium heat, shaking the pan frequently to prevent burning. Continue until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. | |
| 2. Prepare the green beans: | Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook over medium-high heat until tender yet crisp, about 8 minutes. |
| Drain and immediately refresh under cold running water to retain their vibrant green color. Drain well and set aside. | |
| 3. Sauté the shallots: | Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and cook, stirring frequently, until caramelized, about 6–8 minutes. |
| Pour in the white wine vinegar and let it reduce by half, approximately 1–2 minutes. Transfer the contents of the pan to a large mixing bowl. | |
| 4. Make the dressing: | To the bowl with the shallots, whisk in Dijon mustard and the remaining 4 tablespoons of olive oil until well combined. |
| 5. Assemble the salad: | Add the cooked green beans, sliced spring onions, chopped fresh dill, and lemon zest to the bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat. |
| Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. | |
| 6. Rest and finish: | This salad can be made up to 3 hours in advance. Keep it covered at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. |
| 7. Serve and garnish: | Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the salad for added crunch and nutty flavor. |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this salad as a standalone dish for a light lunch or alongside grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.
- It’s also a fantastic addition to any summer potluck or picnic menu, as it travels well and tastes even better as the flavors develop.
Tips for Success
- Green Beans: For perfectly cooked beans, don’t overcook them; they should be tender but still have a slight crunch. Immediately refreshing them in cold water stops the cooking process and keeps them vibrant.
- Pine Nuts: Toasting brings out their nutty flavor and makes them crispier. Be vigilant, as pine nuts can burn quickly.
- Make-Ahead: This salad can be prepped a few hours ahead, making it ideal for entertaining.
This delightful Summer Green Bean Salad is sure to brighten any table. Its fresh ingredients, contrasting textures, and harmonious flavors make it a summer staple you’ll want to enjoy over and over again. Visit Love With Recipes for more inspiring dishes and tips to elevate your culinary adventures.
