Steamed Garden Beans
Steamed Garden Beans: A Simple Side Dish Bursting with Flavor
Looking for a vibrant and healthy side dish that’s quick to prepare? Look no further than these Steamed Garden Beans! This recipe celebrates the fresh, natural sweetness of green beans with a bright and zesty Mediterranean-inspired dressing. It’s a perfect addition to any summer barbecue, weeknight dinner, or even a light lunch.
We’ve taken a classic preparation method – steaming – and elevated it with a simple yet flavorful vinaigrette. Steaming preserves the beans’ beautiful color and nutrients, while the olive oil, vinegar, and lemon juice create a delightful tang that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and fiber.
- Versatile: Pairs well with fish, chicken, beef, or vegetarian dishes.
- Flavorful: The bright vinaigrette adds a delicious zing.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The beans actually taste better after a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
Tips for Perfect Steamed Garden Beans:
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the beans are in a single layer in the steamer basket for even cooking.
- Tender-Crisp is Key: Aim for beans that are tender but still have a slight crunch. Adjust steaming time to your preference.
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality green beans and extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Chill for Flavor: Refrigerating the beans after tossing with the vinaigrette allows the flavors to develop and deepen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
A: While fresh green beans are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before steaming. You may need to adjust the steaming time.
Q: Can I add other herbs or spices to the vinaigrette?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs, such as dill, parsley, or thyme. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick.
Q: How long can I store leftover Steamed Garden Beans?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beans may lose some of their crispness, but they will still be delicious.
Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar?
A: White wine vinegar is preferred for its delicate flavor, but you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice in a pinch.
Enjoy this simple and flavorful side dish – it’s a garden-fresh delight!
Steamed Garden Beans
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 lbs fresh green beans, ends trimmed
- 2 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, chopped or pressed
- to taste sea salt and freshly ground pepper
- 2 Tbsps white wine vinegar
- 2 Tbsps lemon juice
- 2 Tbsps Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil, over a medium-low heat.
- Fit a bamboo or metal steamer basket over your pot; Add in the green beans and cover with the lid. Try not to overcrowd the beans into the steamer, or else they might not cook evenly.
- Steam for 8-12 minutes, or until the beans are tender with a slight crunch to the bite. Tender-crisp beans are preferred at my house, but you may like your beans cooked a bit more than that.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl add the olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add your steamed beans to the bowl while still hot, and toss well to combine.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- They will actually taste better after a couple of hours because the flavors nicely develop and blend together.
- Enjoy!
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