Green Bean and Mozzarella Salad

Here is a simple and tasty recipe for Green Bean and Mozzarella Salad, a fresh dish perfect for summer:

Ingredients

• 400 g of fresh green beans
• 250 g of mozzarella (buffalo mozzarella for a more distinct Italian touch)
• 2 tablespoons of pine nuts
• A few leaves of fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar

Preparation

1. Clean the green beans by removing the ends and rinse well under running water.
2. In a pot, bring some salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans until they are tender but still crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and maintain a nice green color.
3. Meanwhile, in a dry skillet, lightly toast the pine nuts over medium heat until golden brown, being careful not to burn them.
4. Cut the mozzarella into cubes and prepare a large salad bowl.
5. Drain the green beans and dry them with a clean cloth or paper towels, then add them to the bowl.
6. Add the mozzarella cubes, toasted pine nuts, and tear a few basil leaves by hand to release their fragrance.
7. Season the salad with salt, pepper, extra virgin olive oil, and a touch of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar, according to your taste.
8. Gently mix to combine everything and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Curiosity

The green bean and mozzarella salad is a variation of the typical summer salads in Italy, where the aim is to combine the freshness of garden produce with that of local cheeses. Buffalo mozzarella, in particular, is famous for its creaminess and full flavor that pairs well with the simplicity of the green beans.