Corsican Green Bean and Mint Salad

Why Make This Recipe

So, you’re looking for a refreshing salad that brings a taste of summer straight to your table? Look no further! Corsican Green Bean and Mint Salad is a celebration of flavors that you don’t want to miss. It’s not just about being a pretty dish; it’s a blend of tender green beans, zesty lemon, and aromatic mint that dances on your taste buds. Plus, who can resist the tang of crumbled feta? 😋 Trust me, your friends will be asking for the recipe!

How to Make Corsican Green Bean and Mint Salad

Making this salad is a breeze; even if you’re not the next MasterChef, you can totally nail this! The beauty of it lies in its simplicity. You’ll have fresh, crunchy veggies, a light dressing, and vibrant colors all on one plate. Here’s the lowdown:

1. Blanching the Green Beans: This method brightens the beans and keeps them crisp. Say goodbye to soggy veggies!
2. Zesty Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and zest. This dressing is the life of the party, y’all!
3. Tossing It All Together: Combine all your components and let them chill for a bit. Trust me—good things come to those who wait!

Ingredients

Gather this colorful lineup for your salad:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Ready to get those hands dirty? Let’s do this:

1. Boil the Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the green beans and let them cook for 4-5 minutes until they pop with color and still retain their crunch.
2. Ice Bath Time: Immediately plunge those beans into an ice water bath. This method halts cooking and locks in that bright green vibe. Drain well and set aside.
3. Whip Up the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add in salt and pepper until it tastes just right.
4. Mix and Match: In a big bowl, combine your cooled green beans, sliced red onion, and mint. Drizzle that yummy dressing and toss gently.
5. Feta Finish: Top with crumbled feta cheese. 💖
6. Chill Ya Out: Pop it in the fridge for about 10 minutes to let those flavors mingle like they’re at a party!

How to Serve Corsican Green Bean and Mint Salad

Serving this salad is as easy as pie (or even easier, tbh). Place the salad in a nice bowl, maybe with a sprig of mint on top for aesthetic points. As a side dish, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a standalone treat. Got a potluck? This salad will steal the show for sure!

How to Store Corsican Green Bean and Mint Salad

Let’s be honest, if you have leftovers (big if!), you’ll want to keep them fresh. Store any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days to enjoy that fresh taste, but I doubt it’ll stick around long enough to test that! 😉

Tips to Make Corsican Green Bean and Mint Salad

• For the ultimate crunch, don’t overcook the green beans. A bright green and slightly crisp texture is key.
• Experiment with the mint! If you’re feeling fancy, mix in some basil or parsley for a flavor twist.
• Make it vegan-friendly by skipping the feta or using a plant-based alternative.

Variation

Feel free to mix things up! Add toasted almonds or walnuts for some extra crunch. Craving more protein? Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal. The possibilities are endless, my friend!

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Sure! Just make sure to thaw and blanch them before tossing them into the mix. Fresh is great, but frozen can work too!

How long can I keep the salad in the fridge?

It’s best fresh, but it can last for about 2-3 days in the fridge. After that, the mint might start to wilt, and nobody wants a sad salad!

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components earlier, but try to toss them together just before serving to maintain the crispness.

Now, go whip up that Corsican Green Bean and Mint Salad and impress your friends! 🥗✨

Corsican Green Bean and Mint Salad

A refreshing salad featuring tender green beans, zesty lemon, aromatic mint, and crumbled feta, perfect for summer.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed Blanched for brightness
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil For dressing
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Adds acidity
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest Enhances lemon flavor
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped Key ingredient for freshness
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled Adds creaminess
• to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning

Method

 

Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the green beans and let them cook for 4-5 minutes until they pop with color and still retain their crunch.
2. Immediately plunge the beans into an ice water bath to halt cooking and lock in the bright green color. Drain well and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add in salt and pepper until it tastes just right.

Assembly

1. In a big bowl, combine your cooled green beans, sliced red onion, and chopped mint. Drizzle the dressing and toss gently.
2. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
3. Let it chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle.

Notes

For the ultimate crunch, don’t overcook the green beans. Experiment with mint by adding basil or parsley. To make it vegan-friendly, skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative.