We got some delicious green beans in our CSA farm box this week, and I also picked some up at our local farmers market. They are so delicious right now, and clearly very much in season. This simple recipe does not take long to whip up and packs in great flavor (with a tangy lemon and tarragon vinaigrette). It’s the perfect side for a warm summer night because it can be made ahead and served cool or at room temp. Last night, we enjoyed this dish alongside some grilled salmon, and it was perfection.
Ingredients
(Serves 4 as a side)
1 lb green beans, with the ends trimmed
2 cups chopped tomatoes (about 1 in)
⅓ cup pistachios (or hazelnuts), toasted and roughly chopped
For the dressing:
2 tsp dijon
1 tbsp tarragon (dill or basil would be great here too)
¼ cup olive oil
Juice from ½ a lemon (about 2 tbsp)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Served here with grilled summer squash and salmon (with lemon, dijon, tarragon). Delish!
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season with salt. Add green beans a boil for about 2-4 minutes. They should still have a little bite to them.
Drain the beans and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking.
While cooling, prepare the dressing by whisking dijon, tarragon, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper until combined.
Dry the beans and chop into 2 in. long pieces
Chop your tomatoes. I like to use a variety (like cherry and heirloom) for flavor and color.
Assemble tomatoes and beans in a serving bowl. Pour about half of the dressing on top. Toss and taste. Use more dressing if needed.
Top with toasted pistachios (or hazelnuts) and serve.
Optional: Top with feta or goat cheese for some extra tang!
Health benefits of green beans.
They have high levels of antioxidants, which helps fight free radicals in the body (a culprit of many diseases)
One serving of green beans contains a quarter of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C, which helps fight infection and in the production of collagen
They are a great source of vitamin K, which is essential for bone health
They are a great source of plant protein, essential for muscular health, cell development, and a healthy immune system
They can also be helpful in improving fertility because of the folate and iron and low glycemic index
Sources and additional reading:
https://draxe.com/green-beans-nutrition/
https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/natural-health/7-health-benefits-of-green-beans/
https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/green-beans#protein
