Tired of the same old boring side dishes? Craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This recipe for Green Beans with Vinegar is a delightful and surprisingly easy way to elevate your next meal. It's the perfect blend of simple, healthy, and delicious – a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner idea, but still want something wholesome and satisfying. Get ready to experience the best green beans you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a sweeter taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Green Beans: Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim the ends. If using very large beans, you can halve them lengthwise for even cooking.
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Blanch the Beans (Optional but Recommended): For extra vibrant color and a tender-crisp texture, blanch the green beans. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bright green and slightly tender. Immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well. This step is optional but highly recommended for best results.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
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Combine and Toss: Add the blanched (or unblanched) green beans to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the beans and gently toss to coat evenly.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. These green beans are best enjoyed warm, but they're also delicious at room temperature.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Green Beans:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked green beans become mushy and lose their vibrant green color. Aim for a tender-crisp texture.
- Adjust the vinegar: If you prefer a less tangy dish, reduce the amount of vinegar. Conversely, for a more intense flavor, add a bit more.
- Get creative with herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or chives.
- Add some heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Make it a complete meal: Add some cooked protein, like grilled chicken or shrimp, to turn this side dish into a complete and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Lemon Green Beans: Substitute lemon juice for half of the vinegar and add lemon zest for extra brightness.
- Roasted Green Beans: Roast the green beans at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly charred for a different flavor profile. Toss with the vinegar dressing after roasting.
- Garlic Green Beans: Increase the amount of garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and portion size. However, a general approximation per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Fat: 6-8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8-10 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
This simple yet flavorful Green Beans with Vinegar recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a quick dinner idea that's sure to impress, whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out. Enjoy!