Apricot Glazed Green Beans

🥕🍽️🍑 Apricot Glazed Green Beans 🍑🍽️🥕

Apricot Glazed Green Beans are a delightful side dish that combines the freshness of green beans with the sweetness of apricot glaze. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a popular choice for various occasions. Let’s dive into its history, components, preparation steps, and estimated preparation time:

📜 History:
The exact origin of Apricot Glazed Green Beans is unclear, but it likely emerged as a creative culinary invention that combines the sweetness of apricots with the crispness of green beans. It reflects the fusion of sweet and savory flavors, which is a hallmark of many modern cuisines.

🥦 Components:

• Fresh green beans (about 1 pound)
• Apricot preserves or jam (1/2 cup)
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Preparation Steps:

1. Trim and Blanch Green Beans:

   • Start by washing and trimming the ends of the green beans. You can snap or cut them into bite-sized pieces if you prefer.
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender.
   • Immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Glaze:

   • In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the apricot preserves, soy sauce, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat.
   • Cook the glaze for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the sweetness or saltiness as needed.

3. Combine and Cook:

   • Add the blanched green beans to the saucepan with the apricot glaze.
   • Toss the green beans in the glaze until they are well-coated.
   • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through and coated with the glaze.

4. Season and Serve:

   • Season the Apricot Glazed Green Beans with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Transfer them to a serving dish, garnish with some apricot slices or sesame seeds for added flair, and serve immediately.

⏰ Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Apricot Glazed Green Beans is approximately 20-25 minutes, making it a relatively quick and easy side dish for your meals.

Enjoy the delightful combination of crisp green beans and sweet apricot glaze in this flavorful dish! 🍽️👌🍑

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apricot Glazed Green Beans:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 2g
• Vitamin D: 0%
• Calcium: 4%
• Iron: 6%
• Potassium: 8%

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Apricot Glazed Green Beans are relatively low in calories, making them a suitable side dish for those looking to manage their calorie intake.

2. Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.

3. Good Source of Fiber: The green beans provide a decent amount of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel fuller for longer.

4. Moderate Sugar Content: The sweetness comes from the apricot glaze, which contributes to the sugar content. While it’s not excessively high, individuals with sugar restrictions should be mindful of portion sizes.

5. Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Green beans are rich in vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin K, and minerals like potassium and iron. These nutrients play various roles in maintaining overall health.

6. Balanced Flavor Profile: Apricot Glazed Green Beans offer a balanced combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Remember that the nutrition information provided here is approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It’s always a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.