Green bean salad

Green bean salad with homemade mayonnaise and yogurt

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

In a world where quick and healthy meals are becoming increasingly important, green bean salad with homemade mayonnaise and yogurt proves to be an excellent choice. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also brings a fresh taste, perfect for any meal. Green beans are known for their crunchy texture and the nutritional benefits they offer. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, contributing to a healthy diet.

History and Inspiration

Green bean salad is a versatile dish that can be adapted according to personal preferences or available ingredients. Its origins can be found in the culinary traditions of several cultures, having been served over time as a side dish or a vegetarian main course. This recipe enjoys popularity due to its combination of simple yet delicious ingredients.

Your Ingredients

- 1 bag of frozen green beans (approximately 400g)
- 2 egg yolks (for mayonnaise)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower or olive, according to preference)
- 2 teaspoons of whole grain mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 1 small tub of creamy yogurt (approximately 150g)

Helpful Tips for Ingredients

- Frozen green beans: This is an excellent choice as they are already cleaned and cut, saving time. Make sure they are of good quality, without added preservatives.
- Oil: Choosing sunflower oil will give a neutral mayonnaise, while olive oil will add a distinct flavor. Choose what best fits your taste.
- Yogurt: Use creamy yogurt for a richer texture. You can experiment with Greek yogurt for an even more pleasant taste and consistency.

Step by Step to Success

1. Boiling the beans: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the beans. When the water starts to boil, add the frozen green beans.

2. Cooking the beans: Let the beans boil for 15 minutes or until they become tender but still crunchy. This is the secret to an excellent salad – the beans should not become mushy.

3. Stopping the boiling: Once the beans are cooked, remove them using a slotted spoon and immediately transfer them to a bowl of very cold water. This step will stop the cooking process and preserve the vibrant green color of the beans.

4. Preparing the mayonnaise: In a bowl, combine the two egg yolks with the mustard and a pinch of salt. Using a whisk, start incorporating the oil very slowly, drop by drop, until the mayonnaise begins to thicken. You can also use an immersion blender to simplify this process.

5. Adding flavors: Grate the garlic cloves on a fine grater and incorporate them into the mayonnaise. Then, add the yogurt and mix well. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper, to preference.

6. Combining the ingredients: Drain the green beans well and add them to the bowl with the mayonnaise. Gently mix so that the beans are evenly coated.

7. Cooling and serving: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time will allow the flavors to meld.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use fresh green beans? Yes, you can use fresh green beans. Boil them for 5-7 minutes in salted water.
- How can I store the salad? The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best consumed fresh.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with ingredients like olives, cherry tomatoes, or red onion for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Serving and Pairings

Green bean salad with homemade mayonnaise pairs perfectly with savory crackers or even slices of fresh bread. You can use it as a side dish with grilled meats or fish, bringing a contrast of textures and flavors. It also pairs well with a glass of white wine or refreshing lemonade.

Personal Variation

For an interesting twist, add some chopped nuts or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch. You can also try replacing the garlic with a few fresh basil leaves or a little lemon for a note of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also very healthy. Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, while yogurt adds protein and beneficial probiotics for digestion. Homemade mayonnaise, although richer in calories, can be made with quality ingredients, making it a healthier option than commercial ones.

Calories

A serving of green bean salad contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used in the mayonnaise. It is an excellent choice for a balanced meal that does not compromise on taste.

In conclusion, green bean salad with homemade mayonnaise and yogurt is a simple, quick, and flavorful recipe that will add a touch of freshness to your meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or as a side dish, this salad will surely be appreciated by all who taste it. So, get ready to impress with this delicious dish!