Are you looking for a simple, healthy, and incredibly delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This Green Bean Sesame recipe is your answer. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal solution, perfect for busy individuals and families who want a homemade cooking experience without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Get ready to elevate your dinner table with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Optional: 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped (for a spicy kick)
Instructions:
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Prep the Green Beans: Wash and trim the green beans. You can snap them in half or leave them whole depending on your preference. If using larger beans, snapping them in half will ensure even cooking.
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Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame seeds, ginger, and garlic. If adding chili, mix it in now.
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Sauté the Green Beans: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the green beans and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. Don't overcook them, as you want to retain their vibrant green color and slight crunch.
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Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce over the green beans and toss to coat evenly. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish. This green bean sesame recipe pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Green Bean Sesame Dish:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of green beans, it’s best to cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup. You can also substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia.
- Add some crunch: Toasted slivered almonds or chopped peanuts would add a delightful crunch to this already flavorful dish.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices to enhance the flavor profile. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of five-spice powder would complement the sesame oil beautifully.
Variations:
- Garlic Lovers: Add an extra clove of garlic or some garlic powder for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian and easily adaptable to vegan diets. Just ensure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly.
- Spicy Delight: Increase the chili pepper for added heat, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving size of approximately 1 cup and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Fiber: 3-4 grams
This Green Bean Sesame recipe is a testament to how simple, healthy, and delicious food can be. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy!