Imagine a side dish so tantalizing that it transforms ordinary green beans into a culinary masterpiece. Our Orange-Glazed Green Beans are not just a simple vegetable side, but a vibrant, sweet, and savory experience that will elevate your entire meal. With a perfect balance of citrusy brightness and honey's natural sweetness, this recipe promises to turn even the most veggie-skeptical diners into green bean enthusiasts!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold running water, then trim off the tough ends using a sharp knife.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the beans' flavor.
- Carefully add the trimmed green beans to the boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender.
- While the beans are cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes.
- Using tongs or a slotted spoon, immediately transfer the blanched green beans from the boiling water to the ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, honey, and olive oil. Whisk together until well blended.
- Heat the orange glaze mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly thickened and reduces by about one-third, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Drain the green beans from the ice bath and pat them dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the dried green beans.
- Pour the warm orange glaze over the green beans and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the glazed green beans to a serving platter and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Blanching is Key: The secret to crisp, vibrant green beans is quick blanching followed by an ice bath. This technique preserves color, texture, and nutrients.
- Pat Beans Dry: After the ice bath, thoroughly dry your beans to ensure the glaze adheres perfectly and prevents soggy results.
- Watch Your Glaze: When reducing the orange juice mixture, keep the heat at medium and stir occasionally. You want a syrupy consistency, not a burnt sauce.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh, crisp green beans for the most appealing texture and flavor.
- Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh thyme to the orange glaze for an extra flavor dimension.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
