US Trending American Home Recipes 2025

US Trending American Home Recipes 2025

Michelle Obama’s Crunchy White Bean Salad: A Fresh Taste of Spring

Michelle Obama’s Crunchy White Bean Salad is a delightful, nutrient-rich dish that embodies the essence of seasonal eating. Originally featured in her 2012 cookbook American Grown, this salad was developed by former White House chef Sam Kass to highlight the fresh produce from the White House Kitchen Garden.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Seasonal Freshness: Utilizes spring vegetables like radishes, chives, basil, and sugar snap peas.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fiber and plant-based protein from cannellini beans.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or picnic addition.
• Simple Preparation: Easy to assemble with minimal cooking required.​AllrecipesThe Fed Up Foodie

For the Beans: US Trending American Home Recipes 2025

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon honey
• 1 tablespoon chopped shallot​

For the Salad:

• 1 cup snow peas or sugar snap peas
• 1/2 bunch fresh chives, chopped
• 5 mild radishes, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil​Reader’s

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Beans

Using Dried Beans:US Trending American Home Recipes 2025

1. Soak in cold water for 8 hours or overnight.
2. Rinse the beans, removing any debris.
3. Drain and place in a pot with garlic and bay leaf.
4. Cover with water (about 1 inch above beans), bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour until tender.
6. Drain and discard garlic and bay leaf.​

Using Canned Beans:.

1. Rinse and drain the beans thoroughly.​

2. Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, and chopped shallot until well combined.​

3. Marinate the Beans

1. Place the warm beans in a medium bowl.
2. Add one-third of the dressing and toss gently.
3. Let stand for 15 minutes, tossing occasionally to absorb flavors.​

4. Blanch the Peas

1. Bring a small pot of water to a boil.
2. Add snow peas or sugar snap peas and cook for 1 minute.
3. Using a slotted spoon, transfer peas to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking.
4. Drain, pat dry, and slice thinly.​

5. Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine marinated beans, blanched peas, chopped chives, sliced radishes, and chopped basil.
2. Pour the remaining dressing over the salad.
3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly

6. Serve

Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light main course. This salad pairs well with grilled proteins or crusty bread.​

Tips for Success

• Bean Texture: Ensure beans are tender but not mushy for the best texture.
• Dressing Balance: Adjust lemon juice and honey to taste for desired acidity and sweetness.
• Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs for optimal flavor; dried herbs are not recommended.
• Make Ahead: Components can be prepared in advance and assembled just before serving.​

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 217
• Protein: 6.4g
• Fat: 16.1g
• Carbohydrates: 14.8g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 5.7g
• Sodium: 248.6mg
• Vitamin C: 38.9mg​

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Course: Top with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.
• For Picnics: Pack in airtight containers; keep chilled until serving.
• With Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread or pita for a satisfying meal.​

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Note: The salad is best enjoyed fresh; over time, the vegetables may lose their crunch.​The Fed Up Foodie[US Trending American Home Recipes 2025

Final Thoughts

Michelle Obama’s Crunchy White Bean Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients and the joy of seasonal cooking. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or seeking a healthy meal option, this salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress.​