Introduction

Looking for a dish that’s vibrant, healthy, and full of bold flavors? This Green Bean Salad with Hot Mustard Dressing is a standout option. It’s a perfect balance of tender green beans, a zesty mustard dressing, and the crunch of roasted pecans. Whether served at a family gathering or as a side for an everyday meal, this salad elevates any table.

This recipe pairs the heat of Asian mustard with aromatic ingredients like ginger, garlic, and shallots, while the rice vinegar adds a tangy twist. The result is a dressing that coats crisp-tender green beans beautifully. Roasted pecans provide a nutty finish, making this salad as texturally exciting as it is flavorful.

Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad is versatile and easy to prepare. Serve it at room temperature or chilled, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. Let’s dive into this recipe that will quickly become your new go-to side dish!

Ingredients List

For the Salad:

  • 2 pounds green beans, trimmed
  • ¼ cup chopped roasted pecans

For the Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons Asian hot mustard powder (or Colman’s dry mustard powder)
  • 2 tablespoons very hot water
  • ¼ cup neutral oil (e.g., safflower or canola)
  • ¼ cup minced shallot
  • 2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon minced peeled ginger
  • 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced scallions (about 2 scallions)

Seasonings:

  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing

  • In a large bowl, combine the mustard powder and 2 tablespoons of very hot water. Stir well to form a paste and let it stand for 5 minutes to bloom, which enhances the mustard’s heat and flavor.
  • Add the oil, minced shallot, rice vinegar, ginger, sugar, and garlic to the bowl. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the sliced scallions.

2. Blanch the Green Beans

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 2 minutes, or until they are crisp-tender and vibrant green.
  • Drain the beans immediately and transfer them to the large bowl with the dressing.

3. Toss and Cool

  • Season the beans with salt and black pepper. Toss them in the dressing until evenly coated.
  • Let the salad cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to ensure even absorption of the flavors, about 10 minutes.

4. Assemble and Serve

  • Transfer the dressed green beans to a serving bowl or platter.
  • Sprinkle the chopped roasted pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
  • Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Tips for Success

  1. Blanching Tip: To maintain the green beans’ vibrant color, immediately plunge them into an ice water bath after blanching. Pat dry before tossing in the dressing.
  2. Mustard Alternatives: If you prefer a milder dressing, use Dijon mustard instead of hot mustard powder.
  3. Make It Vegan: Ensure the sugar is vegan-friendly and use plant-based oil.

Recipe Variations

  1. Add Protein: Top with crumbled feta, goat cheese, or chopped hard-boiled eggs for a more filling dish.
  2. Nut Swap: Substitute roasted almonds or walnuts for the pecans.
  3. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this salad with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or tofu for a complete meal.
  • Add it to a holiday table as a refreshing alternative to heavier sides.
  • Serve it alongside a crusty baguette for a light yet satisfying lunch.

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and blanch the beans in advance. Toss them together just before serving to keep the beans crisp.
  • Avoid Freezing: Green beans can lose their texture when frozen, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 1 cup)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg

Cost Estimation

Approximate cost per serving: $2.00–$2.50
Budget Tips:

  • Use frozen green beans if fresh ones are out of season.
  • Substitute bulk-bought nuts for cost savings.

Have you tried this Green Bean Salad with Hot Mustard Dressing? Share your thoughts in the comments or snap a photo and tag us with #FlavorfulGreenBeans on Instagram. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next gathering!