Are you craving a vibrant and flavorful side dish that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This Spicy Dilly Bean recipe is a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for adding a zing to your weeknight dinners or summer barbecues. Forget bland, boring beans – this recipe delivers a delightful kick with a hint of dill that will leave you wanting more. It's one of those easy recipes that’s surprisingly impressive, making it a great addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 ounce) can of green beans, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Green Beans: Drain the can of green beans thoroughly. If using fresh green beans, steam or blanch them until tender-crisp before proceeding.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, sugar, yellow mustard, dill, celery seed, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference – more cayenne for extra heat, more sugar for sweetness, or more vinegar for tanginess.
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Combine and Chill: Add the drained green beans to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to ensure the beans are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld and the beans to chill. This step is crucial for a truly delicious dish!
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Spicy Dilly Beans chilled. They're perfect as a side dish with grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches. They also make a fantastic addition to potlucks and picnics.
Cooking Tips for the Best Spicy Dilly Beans:
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Fresh Dill is Key: Fresh dill provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor than dried dill. If you can't find fresh dill, use 1 teaspoon of dried dill instead.
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Adjust the Spice Level: The amount of cayenne pepper is entirely up to you. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and add more to your liking. For a milder version, omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
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Make it Ahead: This recipe is even better the next day! The flavors deepen as they sit, so feel free to make it a day or two in advance.
Variations:
- Add Some Crunch: Incorporate chopped red onion, bell peppers, or celery for added texture and flavor.
- Go Creamy: Use a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream for a richer, creamier dressing.
- Spice it Up: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Change it Up: Substitute the green beans with other vegetables like wax beans or even snap peas!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on variations) Fat: High (due to mayonnaise) Protein: Low Carbohydrates: Moderate Fiber: Moderate
This Spicy Dilly Bean recipe is a delightful example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and satisfying dish. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking, perfect for those nights when you're looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal. Enjoy!