Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Italian "Spring" Bean Salad

Nothing screams Spring like Lemon and Basil-these are a just a few flavors in this fantastical fresh Italian Bean Salad... Perfect for your next barbeque or potluck dinner. YUMM!! 
 
1 (15 oz) can butter beans, rinsed & drained
1 (15 oz) can great northern beans, rinsed & drained 

 1 (15 oz) can garbanzo beans, rinsed & drained- *You could use any variety of white beans you like*
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes halved or quartered depending on size of tomatoes.

 1/2 of a small red onion, minced
 3 green onions, sliced thin
1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese 

1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed- (cube it just a little larger than the size of the beans)
3 tbsp fresh chopped basil- add more if you love basil 

1 tsp lemon zest 
salt & pepper to taste
Lemon Vinagrette- 
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil 
 1 clove garlic, minced very fine 
1 tsp sugar 
1/2 tsp salt 
1/4 tsp fresh cracked pepper

Combine all the Salad ingredients in a medium serving bowl and toss to combine. In a small bowl or mason jar combine lemon vinagrette ingredients & whisk or shake to emulsify. Pour dressing over the beans & taste to adjust seasonings. The flavors get better over time so dress salad about 2-3 hours before serving. Can also be made a day in advance, just keep covered in fridge. Such bright & fresh spring flavors!!

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