Broad green beans or flat beans

Green beans with mayonnaise – A simple yet flavorful recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Green beans with mayonnaise is a classic dish, perfect as a side or appetizer, that adds a touch of freshness to any meal. This recipe reminds us of sunny summer days when fresh vegetables are at hand, and family meals become a celebration. I will show you step by step how to achieve a delicious result, plus a few useful tips to make the dish even more special.

Main ingredients:
- 1 kg green beans (flat or string beans)
- 1 egg (for making mayonnaise)
- 250-300 g mayonnaise (you can also use store-bought mayonnaise)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- Oil (about 200 ml, for mayonnaise)
- Salt, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

A bit of history...
Green beans are a nutrient-rich vegetable that has been used for centuries in cuisines around the world. Whether in a light salad or a delicious side dish, green beans hold a prestigious place in traditional recipes. Combined with mayonnaise, this dish becomes a true feast for the taste buds.

Step 1: Preparing the beans
To start, wash the green beans well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or dried leaves. After cleaning the beans, trim the ends to remove the tougher parts.

Step 2: Boiling the beans
Put a large pot of water to boil. When the water reaches a boiling point, add the green beans and let them boil for about 30 minutes. Ensure that the beans are well covered with water. During this time, the beans will become tender and retain their vibrant color.

Helpful tip: If you want the beans to stay bright green, you can add a teaspoon of salt to the boiling water. This simple trick helps preserve the color and nutrients.

Step 3: Cooling and chopping
After boiling, remove the beans with a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl of cold water or under a cold running tap. This step is essential to stop the cooking process. Once the beans have cooled, chop them into small pieces according to your preference.

Step 4: Making the mayonnaise
If you choose to make homemade mayonnaise, crack the egg into a bowl and whisk it well. Gradually add the oil while continuing to mix. You can use an immersion blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Add a pinch of salt and mix until you have a creamy mayonnaise. If you prefer, you can use store-bought mayonnaise, which will save you time.

Step 5: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chopped beans with the mayonnaise. Add the crushed garlic and finely chopped parsley. Mix well, being careful not to break the bean pieces. Taste and adjust with salt if necessary.

Step 6: Final cooling
Transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step helps the flavors to meld well and gives you a salad with a more intense taste.

Serving and variations
Serve the green beans with mayonnaise cold, as a side dish alongside meats, or as an appetizer on toasted bread. You can also add other ingredients, such as olives or cherry tomatoes, for an extra touch of freshness. Another delicious variation is to add a little lemon juice for a hint of acidity.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of beans, such as red or white beans, but the boiling time may vary.

2. How can I make the mayonnaise healthier?
You can replace part of the oil with Greek yogurt for a lighter and creamier version.

3. How long does it keep in the fridge?
The dish can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Make sure it is well covered.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of green beans with mayonnaise has approximately 200-250 calories, providing a good source of protein and fiber. Green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, having antioxidant properties that contribute to maintaining health.

Drink suggestions to pair:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a cold lemonade, especially on warm days.

Green beans with mayonnaise is a simple and quick recipe yet rich in flavors that can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. So don’t hesitate to experiment and bring a touch of creativity to your kitchen! Enjoy your meal!