Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to embrace fresh, vibrant vegetables. One of my favorite seasonal delights includes runner beans, known for their crisp texture and vibrant color. Pair them with the rich creaminess of ricotta or the tangy notes of feta, and you’ll create dishes that not only taste amazing but look stunning on the plate. Here are two delightful recipes that celebrate this wonderful ingredient.
Charred Courgettes, Runner Beans & Ricotta
This recipe features the vibrant flavors of charred courgettes paired beautifully with fresh runner beans and creamy ricotta. The charring of the courgettes gives them a slightly smoky flavor that complements the earthiness of the beans. This dish is perfect as a refreshing appetizer or as a light main course. Simply toss the ingredients together, season with salt and pepper, and you have a colorful plate that’s bursting with flavor. It’s an excellent way to enjoy garden-fresh produce.
Runner Beans with Tomatoes, Saffron, Olives, and Feta
This dish transforms runner beans into a Mediterranean masterpiece. Utilizing the aromatic spice of saffron, sweet tomatoes, and briny olives, this recipe infuses the garden-fresh beans with an explosion of flavor. Crumbled feta cheese provides a creamy, salty finish that brings all the flavors together. Serve this as a side dish at your next barbecue, or enjoy it on its own as a vegetarian delight. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also makes for an impressive meal that showcases the best of seasonal ingredients.
Both of these recipes highlight the versatility of runner beans, allowing you to showcase their fresh and crisp characteristics. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these dishes are sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful tastes of spring and summer with these simple yet delicious recipes that make the most of seasonal produce.