Name: Green Bean Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb green beans; ½ tsp Baking Soda; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; ½ tsp sugar; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 clove garlic; Salt & Pepper; 2 tsp fresh basil; 2 cups cherry tomatoes; ¼ cup toasted almonds

This vibrant green bean salad is the perfect balance of crisp and refreshing flavors. Ideal for a summer picnic or a light lunch, it's a delightful mix of tender-crisp green beans, sweet cherry tomatoes, and crunchy toasted almonds, all brought together with a tangy lemon and red wine vinegar dressing.

Photos of Green Bean Salad Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to keep an eye out for a few ingredients that aren't always found in typical pantries. Red wine vinegar and fresh basil might not be a staple for everyone, so be sure to add these to your shopping list. Also, make sure to grab some cherry tomatoes and toasted almonds to enhance the texture and flavor profile of your salad.

Ingredients for Green Bean Salad Recipe

Green beans: Fresh and vibrant, these are the backbone of your salad.

Baking soda: Helps to maintain the bright green color of the beans during boiling.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the dressing.

Red wine vinegar: Provides a subtle acidity that complements the green beans and tomatoes.

Sugar: Balances the acidity of the lemon juice and vinegar.

Olive oil: Helps to meld all the flavors together in the dressing.

Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor to the dressing.

Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning the salad to taste.

Fresh basil: Brings a fragrant, herbal note to the finished dish.

Cherry tomatoes: Adds sweetness and color to the salad.

Toasted almonds: Provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

One reader, Carly Gayle says:

This green bean salad is a refreshing delight! The crisp beans and juicy tomatoes, combined with the tangy dressing and crunchy almonds, create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. A must-try for any salad lover!

Carly Gayle

Essential Techniques for Making Green Bean Salad

How to blanch green beans: Bring water and baking soda to a rolling boil. Cook green beans for 4 to 5 minutes or until tender crisp. Drain beans and place in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. How to make a marinade: Combine lemon juice, sugar, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and garlic in a small bowl. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined. How to toast almonds: Place almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant.

How To Make Green Bean Salad

This textured salad has a nice crunch from the green beans, toasted almonds, and tomatoes. We serve this healthy green bean salad with a tasty dressing.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbgreen beanstrimmed
½tspbaking soda
1tbsplemon juice
1tbspred wine vinegar
½tspsugar
3tbspolive oil
1clovegarlicminced
Salt & Pepper
2tspfresh basilchopped
2cupscherry tomatoeshalved
¼cuptoasted almonds

Instructions

Bring water and baking soda to a rolling boil. Cook green beans for 4 to 5 minutes or until tender crisp. Drain beans and place in an ice bath.
Combine lemon juice, sugar, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and garlic in a small bowl. Add green beans and tomatoes and allow to marinate at least 30 minutes.
Top with basil and almonds just before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 131.16kcal
Fat: 10.06g
Saturated Fat: 1.22g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.85g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.59g
Carbohydrates: 9.45g
Fiber: 3.39g
Sugar: 4.70g
Protein: 3.15g
Sodium: 355.47mg
Calcium: 50.92mg
Potassium: 344.96mg
Iron: 1.22mg
Vitamin A: 51.40µg
Vitamin C: 18.40mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Green Bean Salad

To ensure your green beans retain their vibrant color and crisp texture, make sure to immediately transfer them to an ice bath after boiling. This process, known as blanching, stops the cooking process and helps maintain their bright green hue.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Green Bean Salad

Blanch the beans ahead: Cook and cool the green beans in advance. Store them in the fridge until ready to use.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic instead of peeling and mincing fresh cloves.

Pre-toast the almonds: Toast almonds in bulk and store them in an airtight container for quick use.

Marinate overnight: Combine green beans and cherry tomatoes with the dressing the night before to enhance flavor and save time.

Buy pre-washed tomatoes: Use pre-washed cherry tomatoes to skip the washing step.

Substitute Ingredients For Green Bean Salad Recipe

green beans - Substitute with asparagus: Asparagus has a similar texture and can be blanched to maintain a crisp bite.
baking soda - Substitute with salt: Salt can help maintain the green color of the vegetables during cooking.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a comparable acidity and tanginess.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that complements salads well.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.
pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice.
fresh basil - Substitute with fresh mint: Fresh mint offers a refreshing and aromatic flavor.
cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes have a similar sweetness and juiciness.
toasted almonds - Substitute with toasted walnuts: Toasted walnuts provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Beautifully Present a Green Bean Salad

Blanch the green beans perfectly: Ensure the green beans are tender-crisp by boiling them with baking soda for 4 to 5 minutes, then immediately shocking them in an ice bath to preserve their vibrant color and crunch.
Create a balanced marinade: Mix lemon juice, sugar, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic to form a well-balanced marinade that will enhance the flavors of the green beans and cherry tomatoes.
Marinate for optimal flavor: Allow the green beans and cherry tomatoes to marinate in the dressing for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures that the vegetables absorb the tangy and savory notes of the marinade.
Plate with precision: Arrange the marinated green beans and cherry tomatoes artfully on a pristine white plate. This will highlight the vibrant colors and make the dish visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh basil: Just before serving, sprinkle finely chopped fresh basil over the salad. The basil adds a burst of freshness and a pop of green that complements the dish.
Add a crunchy element: Top the salad with toasted almonds to introduce a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tender green beans and juicy cherry tomatoes.
Drizzle with extra olive oil: For an added layer of richness, lightly drizzle some high-quality olive oil over the finished salad. This will enhance the overall flavor and give the dish a luxurious finish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Green Bean Salad

Large pot: Used to bring water and baking soda to a rolling boil for cooking the green beans.
Colander: Essential for draining the green beans after boiling.
Large bowl: Needed for the ice bath to cool down the green beans quickly.
Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the lemon juice, sugar, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and garlic.
Whisk: Useful for thoroughly combining the dressing ingredients.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic clove efficiently.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the baking soda, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, sugar, and olive oil.
Measuring cups: Used for measuring the cherry tomatoes and toasted almonds.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the fresh basil and slicing the garlic.
Chef's knife: Essential for chopping the basil and slicing the garlic.
Tongs: Useful for handling the green beans when transferring them to the ice bath.
Mixing spoon: Needed for stirring the green beans and tomatoes with the dressing.
Serving bowl: Ideal for presenting the final green bean salad with basil and almonds.

Storing and Freezing Green Bean Salad

To store leftover green bean salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious the next day!
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, you can blanch the green beans and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the salad. This will help maintain their crisp texture and vibrant color.
For longer storage, you can freeze the blanched green beans separately. After cooking and shocking them in an ice bath, pat them dry with a paper towel and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen green beans can be stored for up to 6 months.
When ready to use the frozen green beans, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to refresh their texture. Then, proceed with the recipe as usual, combining them with the lemon juice, olive oil, and other ingredients.
It's not recommended to freeze the entire assembled salad, as the cherry tomatoes and toasted almonds may lose their texture and become soggy upon thawing. Instead, store these components separately and add them to the salad just before serving for the best results.

Interesting Trivia About Green Bean Salad

A random fact about this recipe is that adding baking soda to the boiling water helps maintain the vibrant green color of the green beans. This is because the alkaline environment created by the baking soda helps preserve the chlorophyll in the vegetables.

Is Making Green Bean Salad Cost-Effective?

The green beans salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like green beans, cherry tomatoes, and olive oil are affordable and readily available. The use of basil and toasted almonds adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $10-$12.

Is Green Bean Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This green bean salad recipe is a healthy and nutritious dish overall. Here's why:

Green beans are low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and folate.
Cherry tomatoes provide additional vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
Almonds offer healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin and eyes.
The recipe uses minimal added sugar and relies on natural flavors from lemon juice, garlic, and fresh basil.

However, there are a few ways to make this salad even healthier:

Use less olive oil or replace some of it with a lower-calorie option like vegetable broth or lemon juice to reduce the overall calorie content.
Add more non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes to increase the fiber content and provide a greater variety of nutrients.
Consider using a mix of different colored cherry tomatoes (yellow, orange, and red) to incorporate a wider range of antioxidants.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as parsley, mint, or a pinch of red pepper flakes, to add more flavor without relying on salt.
For a protein boost, add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make the salad a more complete meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Green Bean Salad Recipe

This green bean salad recipe is a delightful blend of fresh flavors and textures. The use of baking soda in the boiling water helps maintain the vibrant green color of the beans. The lemon juice and red wine vinegar provide a bright, tangy marinade that complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes. Toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch, while fresh basil brings a fragrant, herbal note. Overall, it's a refreshing and well-balanced dish perfect for a light lunch or as a side at a summer gathering.

Enhance Your Green Bean Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine pairing your green bean salad with a velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. The creamy texture and the subtle sweetness of the squash will create a delightful contrast to the crispness of the green beans and the tangy lemon juice dressing.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Complement your green bean salad with a succulent Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs will harmonize beautifully with the fresh basil and cherry tomatoes in your salad, creating a symphony of flavors.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Add a touch of comfort to your green bean salad with Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. The crispy potatoes with their golden parmesan crust and the hint of garlic will provide a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender green beans.

Citrus Quinoa Salad: For a refreshing twist, serve your green bean salad alongside a Citrus Quinoa Salad. The nutty quinoa combined with vibrant citrus fruits will add a burst of color and a tangy zing that complements the lemon juice and red wine vinegar in your salad.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Enhance your green bean salad with the sweet and savory notes of Honey Glazed Carrots. The natural sweetness of the carrots glazed with honey will balance the acidity of the lemon juice and red wine vinegar, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Green Bean Salad

Caprese Salad: A delightful appetizer featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil for a refreshing start to any meal.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A vibrant mix of quinoa, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad is both nutritious and delicious.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Earthy roasted beets paired with creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts. Finished with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this salad is a feast for the senses.

Asian Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers marinated in a tangy rice vinegar and soy sauce dressing. Garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, this salad offers a refreshing crunch with every bite.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Green Bean Salad

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, offering a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The lemon zest adds a refreshing tang, making it a delightful main course for any occasion.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices. Baked until tender, the peppers are topped with a layer of melted cheese that adds a creamy texture. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to complete this hearty and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish for any dinner table.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth. This decadent treat combines velvety dark chocolate with a hint of vanilla and a touch of espresso for depth. Serve it in elegant glasses, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. For an added crunch, garnish with chocolate shavings or a few fresh berries. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a sophisticated gathering.

Lemon Tart: Delight your taste buds with a zesty lemon tart. This dessert features a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with a tangy lemon curd that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour. The tart is baked to perfection, resulting in a crisp crust and a smooth, creamy filling. Serve it chilled, dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with lemon zest or a few mint leaves. Ideal for a refreshing end to a summer meal or a light, citrusy treat any time of the year.

Why trust this Green Bean Salad Recipe:

This green bean salad recipe is a perfect blend of fresh and vibrant flavors. The lemon juice and red wine vinegar provide a tangy kick, while the olive oil adds a rich, smooth texture. The garlic infuses a subtle depth of flavor, and the fresh basil brings a fragrant, herbaceous note. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, and the toasted almonds offer a satisfying crunch. This recipe has been carefully crafted to ensure a delightful balance of tastes and textures, making it a trustworthy choice for a refreshing and delicious salad.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Green Bean Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I toast the almonds?

I usually toast almonds by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them frequently until they turn golden brown and smell fragrant, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn them!

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Absolutely! If you don't have red wine vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they'll all work well.

How long can I store the salad?

This green bean salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the texture of the green beans and tomatoes might soften a bit over time.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. In fact, letting it marinate for a few hours or even overnight can enhance the flavors. Just add the basil and toasted almonds right before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.

What can I use instead of fresh basil?

If you don't have fresh basil, you can use other fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint. Dried basil can also work in a pinch, but use it sparingly since it's more concentrated in flavor.