Honey balsamic green beans are a classic side dish for a reason. They’re simple to make, require just a handful of ingredients, and burst with flavor. The sweet honey balances the tangy balsamic vinegar, creating a glaze that caramelizes on the green beans for an irresistible bite.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables for picky eaters. The best part? It’s ready in under 20 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
3. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, honey, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.

 

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Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of honey.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Top with toasted nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added crunch.
• Serve with grilled chicken, salmon, or pork.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

 

Honey Balsamic Green Beans: Frequently Asked Questions

 

Your recipe for honey balsamic green beans sounds delicious! To create a comprehensive FAQ section, I’ve compiled some common questions readers might have:

Ingredient substitutions:

• Can I use frozen green beans? Absolutely! Thaw them completely before cooking and adjust the cooking time as needed. They may cook slightly faster.
• No honey? Brown sugar works too! Use roughly the same amount, but taste as you go for sweetness preference.
• Balsamic vinegar substitute? Try red wine vinegar for a similar acidity, or apple cider vinegar for a touch more sweetness.
• Don’t have fresh thyme? Dried thyme works, just use half the amount as it’s more concentrated.

 

Cooking tips:

• Do I need to blanch the green beans? It’s optional! Blanching helps retain their vibrant color and crispness, but you can skip it for a quicker version.
• How do I get the glaze to thicken? Simmer the balsamic and honey mixture for a few minutes until it reduces slightly. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) towards the end for extra thickening.
• What if my green beans get mushy? Don’t overcook them! Aim for tender-crisp, they’ll continue to cook slightly even after removing them from heat.

 

Flavor variations:

• Want it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili flakes for a kick.
• Feeling fancy? Drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese before serving.
• Need it nut-free? Skip the toasted nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

 

Dietary concerns:

• Are these vegan and gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and gluten-free!
• Can I make it oil-free? Use a splash of water instead of olive oil to saute the garlic and green beans.

 

Other questions:

• What can I serve these green beans with? They pair well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, salmon, pasta dishes, or even tofu bowls.
• How can I store leftovers? Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.

 

I hope these FAQs cover the most common questions readers might have about your honey balsamic green beans recipe! Feel free to add any additional questions or variations you think would be helpful.