Avocado Caesar Green Beans offer a refreshing twist on a classic Caesar salad, incorporating fresh green beans and creamy avocado into a tangy Caesar dressing. This dish is not only vibrant and visually appealing but also packs a nutritious punch with the addition of avocado, which provides healthy fats and a smooth texture. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, Avocado Caesar Green Beans are sure to become a favorite at your table. Here’s how to prepare this delicious and nutritious recipe:
Ingredients
- Green Beans:
- 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, ends trimmed
- Avocado Caesar Dressing:
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Toppings (optional):
- Croutons
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
- Prepare Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 2-3 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately drain the green beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Make Avocado Caesar Dressing
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Assemble Avocado Caesar Green Beans
- Combine Dressing and Green Beans: In a large mixing bowl, add the blanched green beans. Pour the avocado Caesar dressing over the green beans and gently toss until all the beans are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the dressed green beans to a serving platter or individual plates. Sprinkle with croutons, additional grated Parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Avocado Caesar Green Beans
- Texture of Green Beans: Blanch the green beans until they are tender-crisp. They should retain a slight crunch and vibrant green color after cooking and cooling in ice water.
- Avocado Ripeness: Use a ripe avocado for the dressing to achieve a creamy texture. A ripe avocado will blend easily and contribute to the smoothness of the dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the avocado Caesar dressing and adjust the amount of lemon juice, salt, and pepper according to your preference. The dressing should have a balanced tangy and creamy flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover Avocado Caesar Green Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The dressing may darken slightly due to the avocado, but it will still be delicious.
Conclusion
Avocado Caesar Green Beans are a delightful fusion of fresh green beans with a creamy avocado Caesar dressing, creating a nutritious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe showcases the versatility of avocado in transforming a traditional Caesar salad into a vibrant and satisfying side dish or light meal. Enjoy the combination of crunchy green beans with the smooth avocado dressing, topped with your favorite garnishes for added texture and flavor. Serve Avocado Caesar Green Beans at your next meal for a refreshing and delicious culinary experience!