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Charred Snap Beans with Whole Lemon Dressing and Mozzarella

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Christina Holmes

When you leave lemon peels behind on the cutting board, you’re (literally) throwing away free flavor. The peel adds a mild bitterness that we love, plus a bit of texture that instantly makes a salad dressing interesting.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    20 minutes

  • Yield

    4 Servings

Ingredients

½ garlic clove, grated
½ lemon (peel and all), sliced, seeds removed, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 pound mixed snap beans (such as green, wax, and/or Romano), trimmed
½ pound fresh mozzarella, coarsely torn
½ cup torn fresh basil leaves

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Prepare a grill for medium-high. Toss garlic, lemon, lemon juice, and 3 Tbsp. oil in a small bowl; season dressing with salt and pepper. If using Romano beans, toss on a baking sheet with a little oil; season with salt and pepper. Grill until lightly charred on 1 side and crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a platter.

    Step 2

    If using green and/or wax beans, grill until just crisp-tender, about 1 minute; transfer to platter.

    Step 3

    Top beans with mozzarella, drizzle with dressing, and scatter basil over.

    Step 4

    Do Ahead: Dressing can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill.

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