Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This crock pot green bean recipe is your answer. It's the perfect blend of simple preparation and amazing flavor, making it a fantastic addition to any weeknight dinner or holiday feast. Forget tedious chopping and constant stovetop monitoring; let your slow cooker work its magic while you relax. This recipe is a true testament to the power of homemade cooking, offering a healthy meal without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted (for added crunch)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans: Wash and trim the ends of your green beans. No need to cut them into smaller pieces; they'll cook perfectly in the crock pot.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients: In your crock pot, combine the trimmed green beans, chicken broth, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently toss to ensure the green beans are evenly coated.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the green beans are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a slight bite, not to become mushy.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in the toasted slivered almonds for a delightful crunch. Serve warm as a delicious and healthy side dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crock Pot Green Beans:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked green beans become mushy. Check them frequently during the last hour of cooking to ensure they reach your desired tenderness.
- Fresh is best: While frozen green beans can be used, fresh green beans offer the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the green beans before serving and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can add more balsamic vinegar for a tangier flavor, or more Dijon mustard for a sharper bite.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your crock pot, such as carrots, potatoes, or onions, for a more complete side dish.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Green Beans: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, for a bright and flavorful twist.
- Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a cheesy and savory delight.
- Spicy Green Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious side dish option, low in calories and high in fiber and nutrients. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands of ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving would be around:
- Calories: 100-150
- Fat: 5-8g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This simple crock pot green bean recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or health. Enjoy this delicious and versatile side dish!