Green beans are a classic side dish that often gets overlooked in favor of more extravagant options. However, with the right recipe, green beans can be transformed into a star on your dinner table. This balsamic-glazed green beans recipe is a game-changer, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to this humble vegetable.
When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was skeptical. Green beans have always been a simple and straightforward addition to my meals. But after trying this balsamic-glazed version, I was blown away by the depth of flavor and the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen, and I've made it countless times since.
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Ingredients
- Green beans — 1 pound, trimmed
- Balsamic vinegar — 2 tablespoons
- Garlic — 2 cloves, minced
- Extra-virgin olive oil — 2 tablespoons
- Honey — 1 tablespoon
- Salt — ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper — ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Spread the trimmed green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the balsamic mixture over the green beans, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes or until the green beans are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Remove the green beans from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the baking sheet over the green beans for extra flavor.
- Serve the balsamic-glazed green beans immediately and enjoy!
Substitutions
- Balsamic vinegar — While balsamic vinegar is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with different types of vinegar to suit your taste. Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used as alternatives, but keep in mind that they will impart a slightly different flavor profile.
- Honey — If you prefer a different sweetener or want to make this recipe vegan, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The sweetness level may vary, so adjust according to your preference.
Variations
- Asian-inspired — For an Asian twist, add a tablespoon of soy sauce and a teaspoon of sesame oil to the balsamic glaze. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions for an extra pop of flavor.
- Garlic lovers — If you're a garlic enthusiast like me, feel free to increase the amount of minced garlic to suit your taste. You can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder for an extra punch of flavor.
Dietary Restrictions
- Gluten-free — This balsamic-glazed green beans recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Vegan — To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Ensure that the balsamic vinegar you use is also vegan-friendly.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Storage and Reheating
- This balsamic-glazed green beans recipe is best enjoyed fresh and hot. However, if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the green beans in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Note that the texture may slightly change upon reheating.
Pro Tips
- Trimming the green beans — To save time, you can purchase pre-trimmed green beans. However, if you prefer to trim them yourself, simply snap off the stem end of each bean. This step ensures that the green beans cook evenly and have a pleasant texture.
- Roasting time — Keep a close eye on the green beans while they are roasting. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the beans and your desired level of caramelization. Adjust the roasting time accordingly to achieve the perfect balance of tenderness and caramelization.
- Customize the glaze — Feel free to experiment with the balsamic glaze by adding additional herbs or spices. A sprinkle of dried thyme or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
Thanksgiving Balsamic-Glazed Green Beans: Tangy and Savory Side Dish
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound Green beans trimmed
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Extra-virgin
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Spread the trimmed green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the balsamic mixture over the green beans, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Remove the green beans from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the baking sheet over the green beans for extra flavor.
- Serve the balsamic-glazed green beans immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Trimming the green beans — To save time, you can purchase pre-trimmed green beans. However, if you prefer to trim them yourself, simply snap off the stem end of each bean. This step ensures that the green beans cook evenly and have a pleasant texture.
- Roasting time — Keep a close eye on the green beans while they are roasting. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the beans and your desired level of caramelization. Adjust the roasting time accordingly to achieve the perfect balance of tenderness and caramelization.
- Customize the glaze — Feel free to experiment with the balsamic glaze by adding additional herbs or spices. A sprinkle of dried thyme or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
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