A salad with green beans and sesame seeds is a delicious and nutritious option that combines the crispness of green beans with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds. Here’s a simple recipe to create a vibrant and satisfying salad:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds (toasted for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped cashews (optional, for added crunch)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Green Beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat dry.
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Toast the Sesame Seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds for 2-3 minutes until they are golden and fragrant, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Prepare the Other Ingredients: Thinly slice the red onion and halve the cherry tomatoes if using. Slice the almonds or chop the cashews if using. Crumble the feta or goat cheese if using.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar (or white wine vinegar), honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger (if using), minced garlic (if using), salt, and black pepper.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans, sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and any optional ingredients like sliced almonds or crumbled cheese.
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Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad.
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Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately, or chill it for a short time to let the flavors meld.
This salad is a great side dish or can be served as a light main course. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu.
