Tired of the same old side dishes? This recipe for green beans with pearl onions offers a delightful twist on a classic vegetable. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the result is a dish that’s both healthy and incredibly flavorful. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your healthy meal rotation. It's one of those easy recipes that elevates any meal, adding a touch of sophistication without the fuss. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 pound pearl onions, peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Start by trimming the ends off your green beans. For the pearl onions, peeling can be a little tedious, but it's worth it! If you're short on time, you can buy pre-peeled onions.
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Sauté the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pearl onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and lightly brown – about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
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Add Garlic and Green Beans: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the trimmed green beans and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn bright green.
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Simmer and Finish: Pour in the chicken broth, and add the butter and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp and the liquid has reduced slightly.
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Season and Serve: Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish. This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Green Beans:
- Don't overcook the green beans: Overcooked green beans become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp – they should still have a slight bite.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green beans and pearl onions will provide the best flavor.
- Adjust the broth: If you prefer a richer sauce, add more broth. If you prefer a drier dish, use less.
Variations:
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Lemon zest: A little lemon zest brightens up the flavor profile.
- Toasted nuts: Toasted slivered almonds or pecans add a wonderful crunch.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This simple recipe for green beans with pearl onions is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes. It's a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and flavorful, making it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings. Enjoy!