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Best Ever Easy Christmas Green Beans

As Christmas approaches, the anticipation of festive gatherings and feasting fills the air. While we often think of the star of the show — the turkey or the glazed ham — it’s the accompanying dishes that can truly elevate a Christmas meal. Among these, green beans shine as a vibrant and healthy option that adds colour and crunch to your festive table. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious way to prepare green beans this holiday season, look no further! Here’s our guide to creating the best ever easy Christmas green beans.

Why Green Beans?

Green beans are not only delightful to eat, but they are also versatile and easy to prepare. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, they bring a touch of greenery to your Christmas feast while providing a nutritious boost. Moreover, their mild flavour pairs wonderfully with a variety of seasonings, making them a perfect side dish alongside heavier mains.

Ingredients

To create the best ever easy Christmas green beans, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• A handful of toasted almonds or walnuts (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Zest of one lemon
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Begin by washing and trimming the green beans. Snap off the ends and remove any strings to ensure they are ready for cooking.

Step 2: Blanch the Beans

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are vibrant green and just tender. Be careful not to overcook them!

Step 3: Ice Bath

Immediately after blanching, transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water. This will halt the cooking process and help retain their gorgeous colour and crispness. Once cooled, drain and set aside.

Step 4: Sautéing

In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant — be careful not to let it burn. Next, toss in the blanched green beans and sauté for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Flavour

Drizzle the balsamic vinegar (if using) over the beans and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Add the lemon zest for a hint of freshness, and stir well to combine.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

For a delightful crunch, toss in the toasted almonds or walnuts just before serving. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme for an added layer of flavour and a touch of colour. Serve immediately and watch as your guests rave about their deliciousness!

Tips and Variations

• Make It Ahead: You can blanch the green beans the day before and finish the dish just before serving. This will save you time on the big day.
• Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, consider adding finely grated Parmesan or crumbled feta just before serving.
• Experiment with Flavours: Swap the garlic for shallots for a sweeter flavour, or add a dash of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Conclusion

This simple yet flavourful preparation of green beans is sure to become a highlight of your Christmas meal. Their crisp texture, combined with the richness of garlic and the brightness of lemon, makes them an ideal accompaniment for your holiday feast. So, forget about soggy, overcooked greens and embrace these Best Ever Easy Christmas Green Beans instead. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and happy cooking!