Description
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sophisticated side dish. These fresh green beans are blanched to perfection, then sautéed with fragrant garlic and crunchy toasted almonds. The dish is finished with a savory-sweet reduction of balsamic vinegar and vegetable broth, resulting in a vibrant, tender-crisp vegetable side that is as nutritious as it is elegant.
Ingredients
1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and washed
1/2 cup sliced almonds
3 cloves garlic, minced finely
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup vegetable broth, low sodium
3 tablespoons high quality aged balsamic vinegar
Sea salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Add trimmed green beans to the water and blanch for 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Drain beans immediately and plunge into an ice water bath to stop cooking, then drain well.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and toast the sliced almonds, stirring frequently until golden brown, then set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes.
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and vegetable broth, tossing to coat the beans evenly as the liquid reduces into a light syrup.
Return the almonds to the skillet, toss to combine, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure the green beans are thoroughly patted dry after the ice bath to ensure they sear properly in the skillet rather than steaming. Using high-quality aged balsamic vinegar provides a thicker, more natural sweetness that balances the acidity without needing extra sugar.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Blanching and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Modern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of total recipe
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg