Lemon-Infused Sautéed Haricots Verts with Caramelized Shallots
This vibrant dish features crisp-tender French haricots verts sautéed to perfection with sweet, caramelized shallots. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest enhances the green beans' natural flavor, creating a fresh, zesty side that complements a variety of main courses. Ideal for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings, this recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted poultry, or even alongside a light salad. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste that this simple yet sophisticated vegetable dish brings to your table!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
French haricots verts
1 lb (cleaned)
large shallot
1 (finely chopped)
olive oil
3-4 tablespoons
lemon
1 (juice and zest)
kosher salt
to taste
freshly cracked black pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2
Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until it's soft and beginning to caramelize.
3
Introduce the cleaned haricots verts to the skillet, stirring to combine with the shallots.
4
Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
5
Continue to sauté the green beans for about 8-10 minutes, tossing occasionally until they are tender but still crisp.
6
Once they reach your desired level of doneness, remove the skillet from heat.
7
Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the sautéed haricots verts and toss in the lemon zest, ensuring even distribution.
8
Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are haricots verts?
Haricots verts are a variety of green bean that is longer and much thinner than traditional green beans, known for being more tender and flavorful.
Can I substitute regular green beans for haricots verts?
Yes, you can use regular green beans, but you may need to increase the sautéing time by a few minutes as they are thicker.
How do I properly clean haricots verts?
Rinse them under cold water and snap or trim off the tough stem ends before cooking.
What is the best oil to use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for olive oil, which provides a healthy fat and a subtle flavor that complements the lemon and shallots.
How long should I sauté the shallots?
Sauté the finely chopped shallots for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and start to caramelize.
How do I know when the haricots verts are done?
They should be cooked for 8-10 minutes until they are tender but still retain a slight crispness or 'al dente' bite.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses olive oil rather than butter or animal products.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used in this lemon-infused vegetable dish are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add garlic to this dish?
Absolutely. Adding minced garlic along with the shallots can enhance the savory profile of the dish.
What main courses pair well with lemon-infused haricots verts?
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted poultry, baked fish, or even light pasta dishes.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled juice works in a pinch, fresh lemon juice and zest provide a much brighter and more aromatic flavor.
How do I zest a lemon for this recipe?
Use a microplane or the fine side of a box grater to remove only the yellow outer layer of the skin, avoiding the bitter white pith.
Can I use red onion if I don't have shallots?
Yes, red onion is a fine substitute, though it has a sharper flavor than the mild, sweet profile of shallots.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
It is best served fresh to maintain the texture and color, but you can chop the shallots and clean the beans in advance.
How should I store leftover sautéed green beans?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a tiny splash of water or oil to maintain their crispness.
Can I freeze lemon-infused haricots verts?
Freezing is not recommended as it will cause the beans to become soft and lose their vibrant texture.
What can I use if I don't have kosher salt?
You can use regular table salt, but reduce the amount slightly as it is finer and more concentrated than kosher salt.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, toasted slivered almonds or walnuts make an excellent addition for added crunch and flavor.
How do I keep the green beans vibrant and green?
Sautéing them quickly and adding the lemon juice only at the very end helps preserve their bright green color.
Is this a healthy side dish?
Yes, it is low in calories, uses heart-healthy fats, and provides essential vitamins from the green beans and lemon.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can use butter for a richer flavor, or a combination of both butter and olive oil.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to provide approximately 4 servings.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, but you may need to cook in batches or use a very large skillet to ensure the beans sauté rather than steam.
What is the difference between haricots verts and standard green beans?
Haricots verts are a specific French variety that is more delicate, cooks faster, and typically has a more complex flavor.
Do I need to blanch the beans before sautéing?
No, this recipe sautés them directly in the skillet to achieve a crisp-tender texture without the extra step of boiling.
What should I do if the shallots start to burn?
Lower the heat immediately and add a small splash of water to the pan to slow down the cooking process.
Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?
Yes, orange or lime zest and juice can offer a different but equally delicious citrus profile.
What type of pan is recommended?
A large stainless steel or cast iron skillet works best for even browning and caramelization.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this dish is very low in net carbohydrates and fits well within a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle.