Avocado Caesar Green Beans

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: croutons for garnish
• Optional: extra Parmesan for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Green Beans:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
   • Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set aside.
2. Make the Avocado Caesar Dressing:
   • In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth and creamy.
   • Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Toss the Green Beans:
   • In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked and cooled green beans with the avocado Caesar dressing until evenly coated.
4. Serve:
   • Transfer the dressed green beans to a serving platter. Garnish with croutons and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips:

• For added flavor, you can roast the green beans instead of blanching them. Toss the green beans with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
• The avocado Caesar dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Enjoy your Avocado Caesar Green Beans!