I wonderful way to liven up a plate of crisp, steamed vegetables is to toss them with a flavorful and nutty herbed vinaigrette.  Take this colorful concoction for example: multi-colored baby carrots, green beans and bright yellow wax beans steamed along with fresh fennel and topped with a flavorful vinaigrette of crunchy macadamia nuts, citrus juice and fresh dill.  A bright and healthy side dish that can be changed depending on your tastes; try using a combination of your favorite veggies, your favorite herbs, and your favorite nuts here to create a magical side dish all your own.

(To view this recipe, click on the following link: http://www.marthastewart.com/1050653/steamed-vegetable-salad-macadamia-dressing)

Tagged: carrots, Clean Slate: A Cookbook & Guide, fennel, fresh dill, green beans, macadamia nuts, Martha Stewart, Salad, side dish, steamed vegetables, vegetable salad, vegetarian