If you're on a keto journey and craving a fresh, vibrant side dish that won't derail your diet, look no further! This Fresh Green Bean Salad is not only low in carbs but also bursting with flavor and color. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a delicious salad that features crisp green beans, zesty cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a delightful accompaniment to any meal, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Keto
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly under cold running water, ensuring they are clean and free from any dirt or debris.
- Trim the ends of the green beans by cutting off the tough, stringy tips using a sharp knife. Discard the trimmed ends.
- Prepare a large pot of salted boiling water for blanching the green beans. Fill the pot about 2/3 full with water and add a pinch of salt.
- Once the water is rapidly boiling, carefully add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender.
- Immediately drain the green beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
- After 2-3 minutes, drain the green beans again and pat them dry with clean paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Thinly slice the red onion into delicate, translucent rings using a sharp knife.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes, cutting them from top to bottom to create two even halves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a light vinaigrette dressing.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the blanched green beans, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- For best flavor, let the salad sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing and low-carb side dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Beans: Select bright green, firm green beans for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any that appear wilted or have brown spots.
- Blanching Technique: Blanching the green beans in boiling water and then shocking them in ice water is key to maintaining their vibrant color and crispness. Don’t skip this step!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor.
- Make Ahead: For a more intense flavor, prepare the salad in advance and let it sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature before serving. This allows the ingredients to marinate beautifully.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with different types of vinegar or add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamy twist that fits perfectly within your keto lifestyle.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
