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

Green beans are a vegetable 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 entirely differently? French-style green beans are a recipe that can change your perspective on this vegetable and introduce a bit of novelty to your daily menu. However, you need to act quickly because the season for green beans does not last forever!

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

Ingredients:

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

Preparation of French-style green beans:

1. Preparing the beans: First, prepare the green beans—trim the ends and remove any strings if the beans are a bit older. Then rinse them thoroughly. Meanwhile, boil 1 quart (just under 1 litre) of water in a large pot; when it starts to boil, add the green beans. Cook them for a few minutes—they should soften but still retain a slight crunch. This delicate balance is what makes French-style green beans taste exceptional.
2. Sautéing the shallots: In heated olive oil, sauté the finely chopped shallots. The French love the delicate taste of these small onions, which add depth to dishes. When the shallots are translucent and soft, you can add the cooked green beans to them.
3. Seasoning: Now it's time for the crucial moment—seasoning the beans. Season them with salt to taste, then add a nutmeg pinch, introducing a subtle, spicy aroma. Finally, sprinkle the whole dish with lemon juice, which will brighten the dish and add a touch of lightness.
4. Frying and finalising: Fry the beans over medium heat for a few minutes until they get a beautiful, slightly golden colour. When the beans are nicely browned, add chopped parsley and gently mix. Now, you can remove the dish from heat and serve it hot.

French-style green beans is a simple and impressive recipe that will appeal to both lovers of French cuisine and those just beginning their cooking adventure. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy and nutritious. Try this recipe and see for yourself how much flavour can be hidden in such a simple ingredient as green beans.