Green Beans with Shallots and Lemon Recipe
This vibrant and easy Green Beans with Shallots and Lemon recipe features tender-crisp green beans blanched and then sautéed with fragrant shallots, a touch of honey, and fresh lemon zest. It's a bright, fresh side dish ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for complementing any meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb green beans
- 2 shallots, finely diced
- 1 lemon, zested
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Blanch the green beans: Bring a medium-sized pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Prepare a large bowl of ice water while beans cook.
- Shock the green beans: Drain the beans using a colander and immediately transfer them to the ice water to stop cooking and preserve their bright color. Drain again and set aside.
- Saute shallots: Heat the butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced shallots and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add honey: Stir in the honey with the shallots and cook for another minute to combine flavors.
- Combine and season: Add the blanched green beans and lemon zest to the pan. Stir and cook together for a couple of minutes until beans are warmed through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately: Remove from heat and serve this fresh, bright, and flavorful side dish right away.
Notes
- Blanching and shocking the green beans helps retain their bright green color and crisp texture.
- You can substitute olive oil for butter to make this dish dairy-free.
- Adjust honey amount for preferred sweetness level or omit for a less sweet version.
- Fresh lemon juice can be added at the end for a bit more tanginess.
- Works well as a side for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or vegetarian entrees.