Summer's bounty is at its peak, and what better way to celebrate than with a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring fresh corn and green beans? This recipe is not just delicious; it's also incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to experience the best of summer in every bite! This simple recipe provides a healthy meal, perfect for those searching for quick dinner ideas and easy recipes.
Sweet Corn and Green Bean Salad with Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad is a delightful blend of sweet corn, crisp green beans, and a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette. It's a healthy meal option packed with vitamins and fiber, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking. It’s also easily adaptable – perfect for beginner cooks seeking delicious dishes or experienced cooks looking for a simple yet elegant side.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and retain their vibrant green color. Once cool, drain well and set aside.
- Blanch the corn (optional): For a sweeter corn flavor, you can blanch the corn kernels for 2-3 minutes in boiling water before adding them to the salad. This step is optional but recommended.
- Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked green beans, corn kernels, red onion, parsley, and mint. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld!
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcook the green beans: Overcooked green beans will be mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference.
- Add protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a little heat.
- Creamy texture: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream to the salad for a creamier texture.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, chives, or basil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
This simple yet elegant corn and green bean salad is a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your taste and dietary needs, making it a staple in your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!