| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 180 | 11g | 2g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 5g | 3g | 0.2g |
From the first time I tasted Green Beans with Balsamic Roasted Shallots, I knew I found another treasure to add to my cookbook. Few dishes encapsulate so simply the essence of Afro-Southern fusion, the culinary crossroads I hold dear, that blend of hearty Southern richness, elevated by the deft touch of West African savoriness.
The Art of Fusion
This vegetable-based dish brings to mind hearty Nigerian stews, their flavors deepened with caramelized onions. But instead of red onions, the alliums of choice in many a Nigerian pot, this recipe makes use of shallots, and the choice is inspired. Their sweetness, juxtaposed to the rich, acidic tang of balsamic vinegar, complements the fresh earthiness of the green beans.
Though I grew up in Atlanta, transported to Nigeria through flavors at our family dinner table, it’s recipes like these that encapsulate my culinary journey – a way of carrying both homes with me. Perhaps it’s one of the reasons I always serve this dish whenever I host dinner parties, alongside a warm Southern cornbread and a spice-infused Nigerian Jollof rice.
The Added Health Perks
But the appeal of this straightforward recipe isn’t just its tastiness, or how the ingredients on the pantry list borrow from my roots. The significant health benefits it carries are a true win. The star of the dish, green beans, are a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals. They’re great for heart health and contain a good dose of dietary fiber, while shallots, like their onion cousins, are rich in antioxidants and known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Besides, with a touch of olive oil – a better-for-you fat – and a splash of balsamic vinegar – known for its potential benefits from improved skin health to lower cholesterol levels – this is indeed a dish that loves you back.
No matter your culinary background or dietary needs, I encourage everyone to try Green Beans with Balsamic Roasted Shallots. It’s a recipe that pays homage to the best of two worlds, all the while fitting into a healthy lifestyle.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds of fresh green beans
- 12 medium shallots
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Peel the shallots and cut them into halves. Take a medium-sized baking dish and arrange the halved shallots in it.
Step Two
Drizzle the shallots with olive oil, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Sprinkle some salt and black pepper to taste, then place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Allow the shallots to roast until they become tender and caramelized. This should take about 30 minutes.
Step Three
While the shallots are roasting, prepare the green beans. Rinse them under cool running water, then cut off the ends. Boil a large pot of water and add the green beans. Cook them until they are tender but still crisp, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step Four
Drain the green beans and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.
Step Five
Once the shallots are done roasting, remove them from the oven. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over them, and toss gently to combine.
Step Six
Combine the roasted shallots and green beans in a large bowl. Toss them together gently, so the beans are well coated with the balsamic shallots. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
Step Seven
Transfer the green beans with balsamic roasted shallots to a serving dish. Serve them while they are still warm, enjoy this savory and tangy side dish with your favorite main course.
