Prepare to transform your ordinary side dish into a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance! This Green Beans with Green Olive Dressing recipe is not just a simple vegetable preparation, but a Mediterranean-inspired sensation that brings together vibrant flavors, stunning colors, and nutritious ingredients in one irresistible dish. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe promises to be your secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold running water, trimming off the tough ends with a sharp knife.
- Prepare a large pot of salted boiling water, creating an environment for blanching the green beans.
- Add the green beans to the boiling water and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, ensuring they remain crisp and bright green.
- While beans are cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes.
- Once beans are tender-crisp, immediately drain them and transfer to the ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- In a separate small bowl, combine chopped green olives, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing.
- Drain the cooled green beans completely and pat dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Transfer beans to a serving platter and generously drizzle the green olive dressing over the top.
- Gently toss the beans to ensure even coating with the dressing.
- Serve immediately at room temperature as a delightful Mediterranean-style side dish.
Tips
- • Always use the freshest green beans possible - look for bright green, firm beans without blemishes. • The ice bath is crucial! It stops the cooking process and helps maintain that beautiful bright green color. • Don't overcook the beans - aim for that perfect crisp-tender texture (3-4 minutes is your sweet spot). • For extra flavor, toast the olive oil and olives briefly in a pan before making the dressing to enhance their depth. • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the most authentic Mediterranean taste. • If you prefer a smoother dressing, quickly pulse the olive mixture in a food processor. • Serve at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop and mingle.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
