French Green Bean Salad

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallot (from 1/2 of a small shallot)
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1 medium garlic clove, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
• 1 pound haricots verts
• 1 tablespoon Whole-Grain Dijon Mustard 
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained and finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves

Combine the shallot, vinegar, and garlic in a large, nonreactive bowl and let sit for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, bring a large saucepan of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat. Also, prepare the beans by cutting the stem end off of each, leaving the wispy tail on.

When the shallot mixture is ready, add the mustard and measured salt and pepper and whisk until combined. Whisking constantly, add the oil in a slow, steady stream. Stir in the capers. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed; set aside.

When the water has reached a boil, add the trimmed beans and cook until crisp-tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain well in a colander and immediately add to the dressing. Using tongs, toss until well coated, then transfer to a flat serving dish. Spoon the remaining dressing over top and sprinkle the beans with the parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.

 

Serves 6.

 

VERDICT:  Strongly flavored and acidic, but delicious.  We made these for a side with mac and cheese and were able to make it while the casserole baked.  The original recipe is here.  Keep.