long and lean

Green beans are not only delicious when served hot but also great served cold or room temperature. This Asian inspired salad is a perfect example of just that. Trader Joe’s sells a Garlic-Basil flavored linguine that puts this vegetarian salad/side dish over the top.

Far East Green Bean-Linguine Salad

8 ounces uncooked linguine
1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
2 cups thinly sliced celery, sliced on the diagonal
1 red or orange bell pepper, seed, cored, and thinly sliced
1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Dressing
1/4 cup seasoned rice wine vinegar
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 teaspoons peeled and finely minced fresh ginger
1 teaspoon sugar
3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely minced
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.  Add salt and cook pasta according to package directions; add beans during last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain pasta and beans and rinse with cold water; drain.

Place in a large bowl. Stir in celery, bell pepper, onions, and cilantro.

Dressing: Whisk together all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl until blended. Add to salad; toss well. Cover and chill for 30 minutes before serving. Taste just before serving and season with salt and pepper, as needed.

Serves 8