Lemon Balsamic Green Beans
Brighten your table with the vibrant flavors of Lemon Balsamic Green Beans—an irresistible side dish that’s as quick to prepare as it is delicious. Fresh green beans are blanched to tender-crisp perfection, then tossed in a tangy, citrus-infused balsamic dressing made with olive oil, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Finished with a sprinkle of refreshing lemon zest and optional toasted almonds for crunch, these green beans are bursting with flavor and elegance. Ready in just 20 minutes, this gluten-free, vegan-friendly dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or any occasion that calls for a fresh and zesty vegetable side. Serve them warm or at room temperature for a versatile crowd-pleaser that never disappoints!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 450 grams green beans
- 1 medium lemon
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons toasted almonds (optional)
Instructions
Trim the ends of the green beans and rinse them thoroughly under cold water.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt.
Blanch the green beans in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer them to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
Zest the lemon and then juice it. Set both the zest and juice aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the green beans and the balsamic dressing to the skillet.
Toss the green beans in the skillet for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to heat through and absorb the flavors from the dressing.
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the lemon zest over the green beans. Toss gently to combine.
If desired, garnish with toasted almonds for added crunch and flavor.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
538 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.8 g | 47% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1763 mg | 77% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 48.9 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.4 g | 59% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.1 g | ||
| Protein | 12.9 g | 26% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 257 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 1278 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
