Green Bean Avocado Salad with creamy avocado dressing on a plate

Green Bean Avocado Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

This Green Bean Avocado Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing offers a fresh and healthy taste that everyone will love. It’s simple to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for any meal. The combination of green beans, tomatoes, and avocado creates a vibrant dish that’s not just beautiful but also delicious. Plus, the creamy dressing brings everything together wonderfully.

how to make Green Bean Avocado Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

To make this salad, you start by preparing the vegetables and the dressing. You’ll blanch the green beans to keep their bright color and crunch, then mix them with other fresh ingredients. Finally, you’ll whip up a creamy dressing that adds flavor and richness to the salad.

Ingredients:

  • 500g / 1 lb green beans (ends trimmed, cut into 5cm / 2" pieces)
  • 3 tomatoes (cut into thin wedges)
  • 1 avocado (large, or 2 medium) (diced into 1.5cm / 2/3" pieces)
  • 1/2 red capsicum / bell pepper (diced)
  • 1/2 red onion (finely diced)
  • 1/2 cup ripe avocado (smushed into cup to measure, or estimate – 1/2 medium avocado)
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp sour cream or yogurt (Greek or plain, unsweetened – OPTIONAL)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove (small, minced using garlic crusher)
  • 4 tbsp water (to thin out, it’s very rich!)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions:

Dressing:

  1. In a bowl, combine the 1/2 cup ripe avocado, 3 tbsp olive oil, 3 tbsp sour cream or yogurt (if using), 2 tbsp lemon juice, minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  2. Mix well until creamy. Add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Salad:

  1. Bring a pot of water to boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and place them in ice water to stop the cooking.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled green beans, tomatoes, diced avocado, red capsicum, and red onion. Gently toss.
  3. Add the creamy dressing to the salad and mix until everything is well coated.

how to serve Green Bean Avocado Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a great side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own. You can also add some grilled chicken or shrimp to make it even heartier.

how to store Green Bean Avocado Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, as the dressing can make the salad soggy over time.

tips to make Green Bean Avocado Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

  • Cook the green beans only until they are bright green and tender-crisp for the best texture.
  • Use ripe avocados for a creamier dressing.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and garlic according to your taste preferences.

variation (if any)

You can add other vegetables like corn, cucumbers, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture. For added protein, consider including chickpeas or nuts.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container.

2. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions.

3. How can I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, skip the sour cream or yogurt and use a plant-based yogurt instead.