Cold Green Bean Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cold Green Bean Salad is the perfect mix of textures and flavors. The crisp, fresh green beans provide a satisfying crunch, while the cherry tomatoes add juiciness and sweetness. The black olives and Italian salami offer a salty, savory contrast, and the mini mozzarella balls lend a creamy touch. Tossed in a tangy olive oil and vinegar dressing, this salad is refreshing, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for a summer gathering or a light lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb fresh green beans
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup black olives, pitted and halved
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 lb Italian salami, cut into strips
• 1 bunch parsley, chopped
• 8 oz mini mozzarella balls

Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dry oregano
• 1 tsp fine salt
• 1/4 tsp ground pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp. Drain the green beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: While the green beans are cooling, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, cut the salami into strips, chop the parsley, and halve the black olives.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled green beans, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, salami, mozzarella balls, and chopped parsley.
5. Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, or roasted red peppers to give the salad more variety.
• Use a Different Protein: Instead of salami, try using grilled chicken, pepperoni, or even a vegetarian protein like chickpeas.
• Vegan Version: Omit the mozzarella and salami for a vegan-friendly version of the salad, and add some roasted nuts or seeds for protein.
• Different Cheese: If you don’t have mini mozzarella balls, you can use bocconcini or crumble feta cheese over the salad.

Storage/Reheating

This Cold Green Bean Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will intensify as it sits, making it a great make-ahead dish for gatherings.

Reheating isn’t necessary for this salad, as it’s meant to be served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Fresh green beans are ideal for this recipe because of their crunch and flavor. However, if using frozen, make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To add some spice, you can include sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing for a kick.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you check the label on the salami to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the salami and mozzarella, and replace them with chickpeas, tofu, or roasted nuts for a protein-packed vegan version.

How can I add more flavor to the salad?

You can experiment with different herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, or add a squeeze of lemon juice to the salad for extra freshness.

Can I use another type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can use feta cheese, goat cheese, or even ricotta for a different flavor in the salad.

How long can I store this salad?

This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The veggies will stay crisp, and the flavors will develop further.

What can I serve this salad with?

This salad is great on its own or as a side dish with grilled meats, seafood, or sandwiches. It also pairs wonderfully with pasta or other Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Conclusion

Cold Green Bean Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that combines fresh ingredients with bold flavors. With crisp green beans, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy dressing, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal or a great addition to a picnic or barbecue. Whether served on its own or paired with other dishes, this salad is sure to satisfy and impress your guests.

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