Tired of the same old boring side dishes? Craving something fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Green Beans Grill recipe is your answer. It's the perfect healthy addition to any summer barbecue, weeknight dinner, or even a fancy lunch. Forget canned green beans – this homemade version is bursting with flavor and texture, thanks to a simple grilling technique that elevates this humble vegetable to delicious new heights. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick and easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Green Beans
Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim off the ends. If you prefer, you can halve or even quarter the beans for more even cooking, especially if using thicker beans.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This simple marinade is the key to unlocking incredible flavor in your grilled green beans.
Step 3: Marinate the Beans
Place the prepared green beans in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss gently to ensure all the beans are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or even longer for a more intense flavor – up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Grill the Green Beans
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Once hot, place the marinated green beans directly on the grill grates. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beans are tender-crisp and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook them, as you want them to retain a bit of their vibrant green color and pleasant crunch.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the green beans from the grill and serve immediately. These delicious grilled green beans are a fantastic addition to any meal. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a standalone side dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Grilled Green Beans:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the green beans enough space to cook evenly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the beans and the heat of your grill. Keep an eye on them and adjust accordingly.
- Add a touch of sweetness: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade.
- Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano can add a delightful aromatic touch to your grilled green beans.
Variations:
- Spicy Green Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Green Beans: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the marinade for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Garlic Lovers' Green Beans: Increase the garlic powder to 1 1/2 teaspoons for a more intense garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This easy green beans grill recipe is a healthy and delicious addition to your weekly meal plan. It's perfect for quick dinner ideas or for impressing guests with a simple yet elegant side dish. Try it out and let us know what you think!