Winter Salad

Winter Salad Recipe with Yellow Beans: Quick and Delicious

If you are looking for a simple and quick recipe that brings a touch of joy to the chilly winter days, you have come to the right place. The yellow bean salad with mayonnaise and yogurt is a perfect choice, not only for its delicious taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Get ready to discover a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also help improve your mood!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe History
This simple and comforting winter salad is a perfect example of a dish that has been passed down from generation to generation in home kitchens. Typically, the ingredients were selected from vegetable gardens, and yellow beans were appreciated for their delicate taste and vitamin content. Nowadays, the recipe has evolved, with modern variations, but the essence remains the same: a harmonious combination of ingredients that offers both flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients
- 250 g frozen or fresh yellow beans (approximately 2 handfuls)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons yogurt (recommend Danone Cremosso for a creamy texture)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 3 sprigs of fresh parsley or dill
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Beans
1. If using fresh beans, start by washing them well and cutting them into pieces about 2 cm long. If using frozen beans, you can skip this step as they are already cleaned and cut.
2. Boil water in a large pot, adding a pinch of salt. This will help retain the vibrant color of the beans.
3. At the first boil, add the beans to the water. Let them boil for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can check the beans' consistency by piercing them with a fork – they should be tender but still slightly crunchy.
4. Once the beans are cooked, drain them well and let them cool. It is important not to leave them in the water too long, as this can cause them to lose their flavor.

Preparing the Dressing
1. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the yogurt. This mix will give the dressing a creamy texture and a lighter taste than plain mayonnaise.
2. Add the crushed garlic cloves (or finely chopped if you prefer a coarser texture) and mix well. Garlic adds an intense and healthy flavor, being a nutrient-rich ingredient.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then add the chopped parsley or dill. These fresh herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add vitamins and antioxidants.

Finishing the Salad
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled beans with the prepared dressing. Gently mix to ensure each bean is evenly coated.
2. You can taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
3. For a nice appearance, sprinkle the remaining fresh parsley or dill on top.
4. Serve the bean salad with toasted bread or another accompaniment that catches your eye. It is a perfect dish for lunch or a light dinner.

Useful Tips
- If you want to diversify the recipe, you can add some chopped nuts or seeds for extra texture.
- Instead of regular yogurt, you can experiment with Greek yogurt for a denser consistency and a more intense flavor.
- This salad pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail, which will add a note of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits
Yellow beans are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, as well as essential minerals like iron. Combining them with yogurt and mayonnaise offers a perfect balance of nutrients and flavor. This salad is ideal for those looking to adopt a healthy lifestyle without giving up the pleasure of enjoying a tasty dish.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use green beans instead of yellow beans?
Of course! Green beans are just as delicious and provide a pleasant color contrast.

2. How can I keep the salad fresh for longer?
If you plan to keep it, separate the dressing from the beans and mix them only before serving. This will prevent the beans from becoming soggy.

3. Can I replace mayonnaise with another ingredient?
Yes! You can use crushed tofu for a vegan version or omit mayonnaise completely, adding more yogurt for a lighter salad.

In conclusion, the yellow bean salad is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for winter days. With a combination of simple and healthy ingredients, this quick recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it and enjoy its comforting taste! Enjoy your meal!