Green bean salad with mayonnaise

Green bean salad with mayonnaise

I invite you to discover a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that combines the freshness of vegetables with the creaminess of mayonnaise. Green bean salad with mayonnaise is a versatile dish, perfect for summer meals or as a side dish to various main courses. Packed with vitamins and flavors, this salad will surely become a favorite on your menu.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g green beans
- 2-3 garlic cloves (to taste)
- 200 g mayonnaise (you can adjust the amount to your liking)
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 carrot (optional, but recommended for added color and sweetness)

Step-by-step guide for preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by trimming the green beans, removing the ends and strings if necessary. Rinse the beans well under cold running water. You can choose to cut them into smaller pieces, but it is not mandatory. Place the beans in a pot of boiling water and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil the beans for 6-8 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

2. Cooling the beans: After boiling, drain the beans and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential to maintain the vibrant color of the beans and to keep them crunchy.

3. Preparing the mayonnaise: In a bowl, combine the two eggs, the teaspoon of mustard, and a pinch of salt. Using a mixer or a whisk, start gradually incorporating the oil (about 250 ml) until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. If you prefer a lighter mayonnaise, you can add a tablespoon of cold water at the end.

4. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, add the cooled green beans. Chop the dill finely and add it over the beans. Meanwhile, chop or crush the garlic and add it to the bowl. If you choose to include the carrot, peel it and grate it, then add it to the salad.

5. Seasoning: Add the prepared mayonnaise, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently mix all the ingredients, being careful not to mash the beans. You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise according to your preferences; if you are less of a fan of mayonnaise, you can reduce the amount.

6. Cooling and serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This time allows the flavors to meld perfectly. You can serve the green bean salad with fresh tomatoes or any other preferred side dish.

Practical tips:
- If you want a vegan version, you can use plant-based mayonnaise available in stores.
- This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Another delicious variation would be adding olives or avocado for an extra touch of freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, which helps maintain digestive health. Garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while mayonnaise adds a dose of healthy fats, especially if you use quality olive oil.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen beans?
Of course! Frozen green beans are a quick and convenient option. Boil them according to the package instructions.
2. How can I make the mayonnaise lighter?
Add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for a creamier mayonnaise with fewer calories.
3. What other vegetables can I add?
Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even boiled corn are excellent additions.

This green bean salad with mayonnaise is not just a simple recipe, but a story you can share at family meals. Whether you serve it at a gathering with friends or at a festive meal, it will surely bring smiles and compliments from everyone. Enjoy your meal and don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!