Light Green Bean Salad

Light Green Bean Salad: a Fresh and Healthy Delight

Looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe for a quick meal or a fresh side dish? Green bean salad is definitely an inspired choice. This salad not only combines tastes and textures, but it is also extremely nutritious, packed with vitamins and minerals. Over time, salads with fresh vegetables have been appreciated in many cultures for their ease of preparation and versatility. Here’s how to prepare a delicious green bean salad, perfect for any occasion!

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh green beans
- 150 g natural yogurt (you can use Greek yogurt for a creamier texture)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- A pinch of chili (optional, but recommended for a hint of spice)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Washing and preparing the beans: Start by washing the green beans thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Then, trim the ends of the beans, removing the fibrous part.

2. Steaming: Use a steamer or a pot with a steaming basket to cook the beans. Add water to the pot and let it boil. Place the beans in the steaming basket, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender but crisp. This method helps retain the vibrant color and nutrients of the beans.

3. Preparing the dressing: While the beans are cooking, prepare the dressing. In a bowl, add the yogurt, crushed (or finely chopped) garlic, and chopped dill. You can use a sharp knife to achieve a fine texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a more intense flavor, you can also add a few drops of lemon juice.

4. Assembling the salad: Once the beans are cooked, remove them and let them cool slightly. Then, place them on a platter or in a large bowl. Pour the yogurt dressing over the green beans, ensuring they are well coated.

5. Finishing and serving: Sprinkle a pinch of chili on top of the salad for an extra splash of color and a spicy flavor. You can garnish with a few sprigs of fresh dill for an even more attractive appearance. The salad can be served warm or cold, making it extremely versatile.

Useful tips:
- Green beans: Choose young green beans with thin, tender pods. Avoid beans that have spots or are soft.
- Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt for a creamier dressing. You can vary the recipe by adding soy yogurt for a vegan option.
- Garlic: If you prefer a milder taste, you can boil it together with the beans or use roasted garlic.

Nutritional values: This salad is rich in fiber, plant protein, and essential vitamins, having approximately 150 calories per serving. Green beans are excellent antioxidants, helping to maintain heart and digestive health.

Possible variations:
- You can add halved cherry tomatoes for an extra splash of color and sweetness.
- Another interesting variation is to add some toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
- If you are a cheese lover, a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese can provide a fantastic flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen beans? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
- How can I store the salad? It can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days. The yogurt may thin out, but the flavor will remain delicious.
- What can I serve alongside? This salad pairs perfectly with grilled fish or chicken, but it is also an excellent side dish for vegetarian dishes.

In conclusion, the light green bean salad is not only a simple recipe but also a true explosion of flavors and nutritional benefits. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or include it in the main meal, this salad will bring a touch of freshness to every plate. Enjoy!