Simply Elegant Green Beans Recipe
Title: Simply Elegant Green Beans
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Description
The recipe title says it all: simple, yet elegant. These wonderful green beans are elevated with the delightful addition of walnuts, goat cheese, and balsamic vinegar, creating a dish that’s perfect for company or for those who enjoy dining as if entertaining guests. The recipe is versatile and can be easily reduced to suit smaller servings.
Recipe Category
- Beans
Keywords
- Christmas
- Thanksgiving
- < 30 Mins
- Stove Top
- Easy
Ingredients
- Fresh green beans: 1 pound
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Walnuts: 1/2 cup
- Balsamic vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Goat cheese: 3 ounces (crumbled)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 245.2
- Fat Content: 19.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 5.8g
- Cholesterol Content: 16.8mg
- Sodium Content: 118.7mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 11.8g
- Fiber Content: 4g
- Sugar Content: 5.8g
- Protein Content: 8.9g
Servings
- 4 servings
Yield
- This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to any desired serving size.
Instructions
- Steam Green Beans: Steam green beans in boiling water until they are crisp-tender, which typically takes about 4-6 minutes.
- Drain and Set Aside: Drain the steamed green beans and set them aside for later use.
- Toast Walnuts: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast them in the oil for about 3 minutes, ensuring they do not burn.
- Combine Beans and Walnuts: Add the steamed green beans to the skillet with the toasted walnuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sauté: Sauté the mixture for about 3 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Balsamic Vinegar: Pour in the balsamic vinegar and toss the beans and walnuts to thoroughly coat them with the vinegar.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the beans and walnuts, toss lightly to combine, and then transfer to a serving dish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Detailed Insights
Ingredient Insights:
- Fresh Green Beans: Fresh green beans provide a crisp and vibrant base for the dish. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and folic acid.
- Olive Oil: Using olive oil adds a healthy fat component to the recipe, known for its monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.
- Walnuts: Toasted walnuts bring a rich, nutty flavor and a delightful crunch. They are also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients.
- Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness that complements the green beans and walnuts, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Goat Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese introduces a creamy, tangy element that contrasts beautifully with the other flavors in the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Cooking Tips:
- Steaming Green Beans: Ensure the green beans are cooked to a crisp-tender state. Overcooking can make them mushy and less appealing.
- Toasting Walnuts: Keep a close eye on the walnuts while toasting them in the skillet, as they can burn quickly. Toasting them brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor.
- Balsamic Vinegar Addition: Adding the balsamic vinegar towards the end of the cooking process helps to preserve its rich flavor and ensures the beans and walnuts are well-coated.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats such as chicken, beef, or pork. It also complements fish and vegetarian main courses.
- Holiday Dinners: The elegant presentation and combination of flavors make it a perfect addition to holiday meals, especially during Christmas and Thanksgiving.
- Casual Dining: For a more casual setting, this recipe can be served alongside a simple pasta or rice dish to add a touch of sophistication to a weekday dinner.
Variations:
- Nuts: Substitute walnuts with other nuts such as almonds, pecans, or pine nuts for a different flavor and texture.
- Cheese: Instead of goat cheese, try using feta or blue cheese for a different taste.
- Vinegar: Swap balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different tang.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, or microwave on a low setting to prevent the green beans from becoming too soft.
Final Thoughts
The Simply Elegant Green Beans recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s not only quick and easy but also visually appealing and delicious. Whether you’re preparing a special holiday meal or just want to treat yourself to something a bit more refined, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of crisp green beans, toasted walnuts, creamy goat cheese, and the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar is a flavor symphony that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
