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Looking for a refreshing and vibrant salad that captures the essence of Italian cuisine? Look no further than this delightful Green Beans and Carrot Salad Italian Style! Bursting with fresh flavors, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious way to enjoy your veggies. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, it’s easy to prepare and will leave your taste buds singing!
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serving Size
- Serves: 4
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 5 minutes
Total Time
- 15 minutes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Veggies
Start by washing and trimming the green beans. If you want a little crunch, leave them whole; for a more elegant presentation, you can cut them into bite-sized pieces. Slice the carrots thinly so they cook quickly and evenly.
2. Blanch the Green Beans and Carrots
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced carrots and green beans to the pot and blanch for about 3–5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Once they’re done, quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This step will help maintain their vibrant color!
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This zesty dressing will tie all the flavors together beautifully!
4. Toss It All Together
Once the green beans and carrots are cooled, drain them and add them to a large salad bowl. Toss in the red onion, cherry tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently mix until everything is well coated.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and watch it disappear at your next gathering!
Why This Salad Stands Out
This Green Beans and Carrot Salad Italian Style is a true testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something special. The crunch of the green beans paired with the sweetness of the carrots and the brightness of the cherry tomatoes makes every bite a joy.
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or grated Parmesan cheese!
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this colorful and delicious salad that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any time you want a healthy and flavorful dish that captures the spirit of Italy. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
