Fresh Green Bean Salad
A vibrant green bean salad featuring tender beans, fresh tomatoes, and a tangy lemon mayonnaise dressing, perfect for light lunches or side dishes at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and cut string beans at an angle.
- In a 12-inch skillet, put string beans in 1/2-inch boiling water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat again.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes or until barely tender.
- Drain beans well.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, and grated lemon peel.
- Add the cooked green beans and sliced tomatoes to the dressing.
- Toss gently to combine and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant twist, consider adding thinly sliced red onion or bell peppers to the salad. If you're looking for a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for mayonnaise. Ensure the green beans are not overcooked to maintain their crunch. This salad is also delicious served chilled, making it perfect for summer meals or picnics.
Serving Suggestions
This Fresh Green Bean Salad makes a refreshing side for grilled meats like chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with American recipes such as burgers or barbecued ribs. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light soup or a warm Vegetable Rice Casserole for a satisfying balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The green beans may lose some crunch, but the flavors will still meld beautifully. To refresh the salad, toss gently before serving. Avoid reheating as the mayonnaise may separate, diminishing texture and taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Green Bean Salad contains roughly 105 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1883mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before mixing with the dressing. Frozen beans may be softer than fresh ones, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid mushiness.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this Fresh Green Bean Salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or a tahini-based dressing. You can also add extra veggies like cucumber or radishes for added flavor and texture.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of flavor. A splash of vinegar or lemon juice can also enhance the dressing. For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).