There’s something about this fresh Green Bean and Cherry Tomato Salad that keeps me making it summer in and summer out. It’s hardly a “recipe” at all, but one worth having in your collection. It’s fast and simple to throw together and has just the perfect delicious balance of a vinaigrette that when combined all together and pulled cold out of the fridge…. delish! Effortless summer goodness at its finest. I highly recommend giving it a try.
Green Bean and Cherry Tomato Salad
(Adapted from Chez Panisse Vegetables by smittenkitchen)
Serves 6
1 pound green beans, though if you can find a mix of green and yellow beans, it will be all the prettier
1 pound cherry tomatoes
1 large shallot
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Basil or other herb (optional)
Prepare the vegetables: Top and tail the beans and cut them into large segments. Parboil the beans in salted water until just tender, about four to five minutes. Drain and immediately spread them out to cool. Stem the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
Make the vinaigrette: Peel and mince the shallot and put it in a bowl with the vinegar and salt and pepper. Whisk in the olive oil. Taste and adjust the balance with more vinegar, oil, or salt, as needed. Toss the cherry tomatoes in with the vinaigrette; this can sit for a while. Do not add the green beans until just before serving or they will discolor from the acid in the vinaigrette. For variety, the salad can be garnished with basil or some other fresh herb such as parsley, chervil or hyssop.
Do ahead: Beans and vegetables can be prepared ahead of time. Simply toss with the dressing only at the last minute, as it can discolor the green beans after several hours.
Fantastic photo of one of my favorite summer salads.
I am just about to harvest my beans so this recipe has come at just the right time for me to use up my surplus.
Sounds like a very tasty salad, the colour must have been exquisite.
It is really pretty. I love taking advantage of all the fresh veggies and fruits in summertime, don’t you?!
Absolutely, and they totally taste like they should instead of the bland no taste veggies we usually get in the winter.
Mom made something very similar every Summer and I’ve not thought of it in some time. Thanks for the reminder. I’m sure your version is every bit as delicious.
I’m glad I could rekindle the memory! 🙂
Looks delicious!
It’s really good… thanks!
I can see why you find yourself eating this lots in the summertime. Very simple and extremely delicious. Thanks for sharing
Thank you!
One of my favorite salads!! YUM!
We love it, too!