Green bean salad

Fresh Green Bean Salad

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Treat yourself to this green bean salad, a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a light meal or as a side. Here’s how to prepare it step by step!

Ingredients:
- 400 g fresh green beans (or frozen if not available)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 small onion (preferably red for a sweeter taste)
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 100 g mayonnaise (you can use light mayonnaise for a lower-calorie option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for added acidity

Instructions:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by washing the green beans thoroughly under cold running water. If using fresh beans, trim the ends and, if necessary, cut the beans into smaller pieces (about 3-4 cm). Place water in a large pot, bring it to a boil, and add a teaspoon of salt. Add the beans and boil for 5-7 minutes until they are crisp but not soft. If using frozen beans, follow the instructions on the package.

2. Cooling the beans: Once the beans are cooked, remove them from the water and immediately place them in a bowl of cold water (or ice). This will stop the cooking process and preserve the vibrant color of the beans. Let them cool for 5 minutes, then drain well.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel the carrot and grate it. Dice the onion into small cubes and crush the garlic. If you want a more intense flavor, you can lightly sauté the onion in a bit of olive oil before adding it to the salad.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the green beans, grated carrot, diced onion, and crushed garlic. Add the mayonnaise and mix well to coat all the ingredients. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a delicious contrast.

5. Finishing the salad: Add the chopped parsley and gently mix to avoid crushing the beans. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving so the flavors meld perfectly.

Serving suggestions:
This green bean salad is delicious served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or on a slice of toasted bread as a light tartine. You can also add some slices of tomato or avocado for a contrast of colors and textures.

Customized version:
If you want to add a surprise element, you can include some toasted nuts or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of mayonnaise, such as garlic-flavored or herb-infused.

This green bean salad is not only a simple and quick recipe, but it is also extremely versatile, allowing you to adapt it according to your preferences. Enjoy every bite and savor its freshness!