Teresa's Recipes
Spicy Green Bean Salad
This vibrant Spicy Green Bean Salad combines the crispness of fresh green beans with a zesty and spicy dressing that awakens the taste buds. Bursting with bold flavors from garlic, lime, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, this salad is not just a side dish but a culinary experience. Topped with crunchy roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro, it’s a delightful addition to any meal, especially during the warm months. This dish has roots in Southeast Asian cuisine, where fresh vegetables and bold flavors take center stage, making it a perfect representation of the region’s love for balance and freshness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound, trimmed Green beans
- 1, diced Red bell pepper
- 1/2, thinly sliced Red onion
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup, chopped Roasted peanuts
- 1/2 teaspoon (to taste) Salt
- 1 teaspoon (adjust for spice preference) Red pepper flakes
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 2 tablespoons Sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are crisp-tender.
- Immediately drain the green beans and rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process. This helps maintain their vibrant green color and crunch.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked green beans, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the green bean mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Just before serving, garnish the salad with the chopped roasted peanuts for an added crunch and flavor.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.
Tips
- For a different flavor twist, try adding a splash of rice vinegar or some sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- This salad can be made a few hours in advance; just keep it covered in the refrigerator until serving to allow the flavors to meld.