Go Back
Marinated Green Beans Recipe

Marinated Green Beans Recipe - Comfort Food Meals

Ah, marinated green beans. They are like that friend who brings the fun to a gathering but doesn’t need to be the center of attention. These vibrant beans can elevate any meal with their tangy, crunchy personality. I remember the first time I tasted marinated green beans at a family barbecue. A hesitant scoop turned into seconds! Now, I can’t seem to get enough.
In terms of flavor, marinated green beans offer a delightful tang, complemented by crunchy garlic and the occasional zing from vinegar. They’re refreshing and can easily steal the spotlight from heavier dishes. Whether you are hosting a summer potluck or just looking for a side to jazz up dinner, this dish fits right in. So, what exactly is this dish? Let’s break it down.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 45
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds fresh green beans
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 small red onion
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Method
 

Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for about 3-5 minutes. You’re looking for a vibrant green color, not a mushy texture. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) to stop the cooking process. This helps maintain that lovely crunch!
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined; you want a nice emulsion for your beans.
Step 3: Toss in the Flavors
  1. Drain the green beans from the ice bath and pat them dry. In a large bowl, add the green beans, sliced red onion, and fresh thyme leaves. Then pour the marinade over the top. Give it all a good toss, making sure every bean is covered in that flavorful concoction.
Step 4: Chill and Marinate
  1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the beans to a jar. Refrigerate for at least an hour, but overnight is even better. This gives the beans time to absorb the marinade.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Before serving, toss again to redistribute the marinade. If you want to make it more glamorous, sprinkle those toasted pine nuts on top for an added crunch.

Notes

Here are some helpful tips to assist you in perfecting your marinated green beans:
  • Choose Fresh Beans: Opt for vibrant, firm, and bright green beans. Freshness makes a big difference.
  • Don't Skip the Ice Bath: This step preserves the beans' color and texture. It’s worth the extra effort.
  • Give it Time: The longer they marinate, the better they taste. So, plan ahead!
  • Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to throw in your favorite herbs. Basil, dill, or parsley could be fantastic additions.
  • Use Quality Ingredients: With just a few components, the quality of your oil and vinegar can really shine through.