Bean salad

Refreshing Bean Salad with Green Onions and Dill

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Soaking time: 24 hours
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 25 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

A bit of history

Bean salad is a traditional recipe, appreciated for its versatility and simplicity. Over time, it has been prepared in various forms, becoming a popular dish in kitchens around the world. This salad is not only an excellent choice for fasting meals but also provides a rich source of plant-based proteins, making it ideal for those looking to diversify their diet.

Ingredients

- 400 g large white beans
- 1 bunch green onions
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 bunch fresh dill
- 1 red bell pepper
- 10 green or black olives
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Thyme, to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, 3-4 tablespoons
- 1 lemon (for juice and zest)

Preparing the ingredients

1. Soaking the beans: Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with warm water. It is essential to let them soak for 24 hours, changing the water 2-3 times. This step will not only help the beans hydrate but also reduce cooking time.

2. Boiling the beans: After soaking, add the beans to a large pot with fresh water. Add a teaspoon of salt, a teaspoon of baking soda, or a teaspoon of sugar (these help maintain the color and texture of the beans). Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, discard the water and repeat this step 2-3 times. This will help remove substances that can cause digestive discomfort.

3. Cooling the beans: Once the beans are boiled (about 45-60 minutes), drain them and let them cool.

Preparing the salad

1. Chopping the vegetables: While the beans are cooling, finely chop the green onions, red bell pepper, and garlic cloves. Fresh dill will add a refreshing flavor, so don’t forget to chop that as well.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, place the cooled beans and add the chopped vegetables. Then, add the olives, which bring a salty note and delicious taste.

3. Seasoning: Season the salad with salt, pepper, and thyme, to taste. Here you can experiment by adding other herbs you like. Then add the olive oil and lemon juice, which will provide a fresh taste and balance the flavors.

4. Mixing well: Use a spatula to gently mix all the ingredients so that the flavors combine harmoniously.

Serving suggestions

This salad can be served as an appetizer or as a side dish alongside grilled dishes, fish, or meat. It can also be an excellent choice for a picnic or a light lunch. Additionally, feel free to customize it with ingredients like avocado or feta cheese for a different taste and texture.

Nutritional benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based proteins, fiber, and essential minerals such as iron and magnesium. This salad not only provides beneficial nutritional content but also a delicious and satisfying taste. It is a perfect choice for vegans and vegetarians, as well as anyone looking to reduce meat consumption.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned beans? Yes, but it's recommended to choose canned beans in water or their own juice, without added sugars or preservatives.

- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even avocado for added creaminess.

- How can I store the salad? The salad can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to 3 days. The flavors will be even more intense the next day.

- What drinks pair well with it? A fresh lemonade or a dry white wine will perfectly complement the salad.

Finish your meal with this delicious bean salad, which will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of health to your plate. Enjoy!