French-style green beans: A simple twist on a classic vegetable

Green beans are a vegetable that most of us associate with simple, homemade recipes—usually served with breadcrumbs and butter. But what would you say if we approached this classic dish in a completely different way? French-style green beans are a recipe that can change your view of this vegetable and add some novelty to your daily menu. However, you have to act quickly because the season for green beans doesn't last forever!

French cuisine is known for its elegance and sophistication, translating into how even the simplest ingredients are prepared. French-style green beans are a perfect example of how a few simple additions can create something exceptional.

Ingredients:            

• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1-2 shallots (small, mild-tasting onions)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• salt to taste
• a pinch of nutmeg
• 1/2 bunch of parsley

Preparation of French-style green beans:      

1. Preparing the beans: First, prepare the green beans by trimming the ends and removing any strings if the beans are a bit older. Then rinse them thoroughly. Meanwhile, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Once the water is boiling, add the beans. Cook them for a few minutes – they should soften but still retain a bit of crunch. It is this delicate balance that makes French-style green beans taste exceptional.
2. Sautéing shallots: In the heated olive oil, sauté finely chopped shallots. The French love the delicate flavour of this small onion, which adds depth to dishes. You can add the cooked beans once the shallots are softened and translucent.
3. Seasoning: It's time for the key moment – seasoning the beans. Season them with salt to taste and add a nutmeg pinch, introducing a subtle, spicy aroma. Finally, drizzle the beans with lemon juice, brightening the dish and adding lightness.
4. Sautéing and finishing: Sauté the beans over medium heat for a few minutes to achieve a beautiful, lightly golden colour. When the beans are nicely browned, add chopped parsley and gently mix. Now, remove the dish from the heat and serve hot.

French-style green beans are a simple and impressive recipe that will undoubtedly appeal to both lovers of French cuisine and those just starting their culinary journey. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy and nutritious. Try this recipe and see how much flavour can be found in such a simple ingredient as green beans.