Teresa's Recipes
Enhanced Green Bean and Gorgonzola Salad
Dive into a delightful medley of flavors with this Green Bean and Gorgonzola Salad. The crisp-tender green beans provide a vibrant crunch, perfectly balanced by the creamy, tangy notes of Gorgonzola cheese. Tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, this salad is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, showcasing a colorful array of ingredients. Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, this salad is a homage to the fresh produce of the Mediterranean region, where salads are a staple of communal dining.
Ingredients
- 1 pound, trimmed Green beans
- 4 ounces, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- 1/2 cup, roughly chopped Walnuts
- 1/2, thinly sliced Red onion
- 1/2 cup Dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Sugar: 6g
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook until crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Drain the green beans and immediately rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled green beans, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste to create a zesty vinaigrette.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are well-coated.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience. Enjoy this salad as a refreshing side dish or a light meal.
Tips
- For a nut-free version, you can substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
- Feel free to add other ingredients such as cherry tomatoes or avocado for added flavor and nutrition.
- This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside a hearty pasta dish.