Garlic-balsamic green beans

Garlic-balsamic green beans are a vibrant side dish featuring blanched green beans sautéed with aromatic garlic and a tangy balsamic glaze. This quick recipe provides a healthy, flavourful addition to any meal.

08 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 cup green beans
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp vinegar
1 garlic clove

Garlic-balsamic green beans is a simple yet flavorful side dish that complements a variety of main courses. The combination of fresh green beans, aromatic garlic, tangy balsamic vinegar, and rich olive oil creates a dish that is both healthy and delicious. This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a quick and easy way to add more vegetables to their meals.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Green Beans:
- Wash and trim the ends off the green beans.

2. Blanch the Green Beans (Optional but Recommended):
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water, then add the green beans.
- Blanch the green beans for about 2-3 minutes or until they become bright green and tender-crisp.
- Immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the olive oil to the skillet and let it warm up.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Cook the Green Beans:
- Add the green beans to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil.
- Sauté the green beans for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and have absorbed some of the garlic flavor.

5. Add the Balsamic Vinegar:
- Pour the balsamic vinegar over the green beans in the skillet.
- Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the green beans are evenly coated and the vinegar has slightly reduced.

6. Season and Serve:
- Optionally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the green beans to a serving dish.

Garlic-balsamic green beans is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a healthy side dish packed with flavor. Whether you're pairing it with your favorite protein or enjoying it on its own, this dish is sure to impress. The simplicity of its ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine through, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Garlic-balsamic green beans FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover garlic-balsamic green beans?

Store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

How can I prevent the garlic from burning while sautéing?

To prevent burning, sauté the garlic for just about 1 minute until fragrant. Keep the heat at medium and watch it closely, as garlic can burn quickly.

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used. Simply thaw them and skip the blanching step, but adjust the sauté time as needed.

What pan size is recommended for sautéing the green beans?

A 10 to 12-inch skillet is ideal for sautéing the green beans, allowing enough space for even cooking without overcrowding.

What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar in this recipe?

If you don't have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor will slightly differ.

Tips:

- Use fresh, crisp green beans for the best texture and flavor.

- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing to retain their vibrant color and crunch.

- Adjust the amount of garlic and balsamic vinegar to suit your personal taste preferences.

- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 45kcal
Protein 2.49g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 3.46g
Sugar 4.17g
Fat 14g

Garlic-balsamic green beans