Side Dishes > Vegetables > Italian

Balsamic-Glazed Green Beans Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Small bowl

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Rinse the green beans under cold water and trim the ends.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add the green beans to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, black pepper, and honey.

5. Pour the balsamic mixture over the green beans and toss to coat.

6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the glaze has thickened and the green beans are fully coated.

7. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top.

8. Serve immediately.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of vinegar instead of balsamic vinegar.
- If you don't have honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar.

Variations:
- Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the glaze for extra flavor.
- Use different nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, instead of almonds.

Tips and tricks:
- To toast the almonds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Don't overcook the green beans, as they will become mushy and lose their bright green color.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the green beans in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the green beans on a platter or in a large bowl, garnished with additional toasted almonds and fresh herbs.

Garnishes:
- Toasted almonds
- Fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary

Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Roasted pork tenderloin
- Quinoa or brown rice

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Steamed broccoli
- Garlic mashed potatoes

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the glaze is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
- If the green beans are too tough, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before cooking them in the skillet.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils and surfaces that come into contact with the green beans to prevent cross-contamination.

Food history:
- Balsamic vinegar originated in Italy and has been used in cooking for centuries.

Flavor profiles:
- The balsamic glaze is sweet and tangy, while the green beans are tender-crisp and slightly nutty from the toasted almonds.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the green beans as a side dish with your favorite main course.

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Taste: Tangy, Sweet, Savory, Sour, Umami