Tired of the same old steamed green beans? Ready to elevate your side dish game? Then get ready to discover the magic of grilling green beans! This simple recipe transforms ordinary green beans into a smoky, flavorful delight that's perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner. It's one of those easy recipes that packs a delicious punch, making it a staple in our healthy meals repertoire. Get ready for the best grilled green beans you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Wash and trim the ends of your fresh green beans. This is a simple step, but essential for ensuring a clean, delicious result. Discard any damaged or wilted beans.
Step 2: Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
In a large bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If using, add the balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of tangy flavor. Gently toss to ensure the beans are evenly coated. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator for maximum flavor absorption. This is a simple step that significantly enhances the flavor profile.
Step 3: Grill the Green Beans
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the green beans in a single layer on the grill grates. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the beans are tender-crisp and slightly charred. Use tongs to gently turn the beans halfway through. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple green beans into a smoky culinary delight.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the grilled green beans from the grill and serve immediately. They're delicious as a simple side dish, or you can add them to salads, pasta dishes, or grain bowls. These quick dinner ideas are perfect for busy weeknights.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Green Beans:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Overcrowding will steam the beans instead of grilling them, resulting in a less desirable texture.
- Watch carefully: Green beans cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your green beans and the heat of your grill.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as smoked paprika, rosemary, or thyme, for a unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Green Beans: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the marinade for a bright, citrusy flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill also pair beautifully with grilled green beans.
- Spicy Green Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
- Garlic-Parmesan Green Beans: Toss the cooked green beans with grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic for a savory finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 1-cup serving and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 3g
This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are also healthy meals, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts. Enjoy this simple and flavorful side dish—a testament to how easy it is to create exceptional food with minimal effort.