Imagine a side dish so simple yet so irresistible that it transforms ordinary string beans into a culinary masterpiece. This String Beans with Shallots recipe is your ticket to elevating everyday vegetables from bland to grand, with a perfect balance of crisp texture and rich, caramelized flavor that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb string beans, trimmed
- 2 shallots, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the string beans thoroughly under cool running water, ensuring all dirt and debris are removed.
- Trim the ends of the string beans by cutting off the tough stem ends, creating uniform beans approximately 3-4 inches in length.
- Peel the shallots and slice them thinly into delicate, translucent rings using a sharp knife.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and becomes fragrant.
- Add the sliced shallots to the hot oil and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and slightly golden, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the trimmed string beans to the skillet, tossing them with the shallots to ensure even coating with oil.
- Season the beans and shallots with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Cook the string beans for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and bright green.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish, ensuring the shallots are evenly distributed over the beans.
- Serve immediately while hot, as a delicious side dish that complements many main courses.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Beans: Select bright green, firm string beans without blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't Overcook: The key to perfect string beans is maintaining their tender-crisp texture. Watch them closely and remove from heat as soon as they turn bright green and are slightly tender.
- Use High Heat: A medium-high heat helps caramelize the shallots and create a beautiful golden color without burning them.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning brings out the natural sweetness of the beans and shallots.
- Serve Immediately: These beans are best enjoyed hot and fresh, right after cooking to preserve their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
