Russian Cold String Beans Or Asparagus with Vodka Vinaigrette

[Guest guest]

Russian Cold String Beans Or Asparagus with Vodka Vinaigrette  

 

1 lb. string beans trimmed or 1 lb. asparagus, peeled and trimmed

1/2 cup olive oil

1 large shallot finely minced

1 tbsp. Dijon mustard or a hot spicy mustard

1/4 cup Georgian or balsamic vinegar

2 tbsps vodka

salt to taste

freshly ground black pepper to taste

 

Optional:

2 hard-boiled eggs finely chopped

1 red bell pepper finely diced

 

Blanch and refresh string beans in salted water.

In 1 tablespoon olive oil taken from the 1/2 cup, caramelize the minced shallot.

Put shallot, mustard, vinegar, and vodka in a blender. Slowly drizzle in the

remaining oil. Mix in salt, and pepper. Serve over string beans or asparagus.

Optional: Garnish with a little chopped hard boiled egg and/or finely diced red

bell pepper. Yields 4 servings.