Elegant Balsamic Green Beans with Caramelized Onions

By Dr. Cindy Tanzar

Elevate your vegetable side dishes this holiday season with a delicious and sophisticated alternative to the traditional green bean casserole. Balsamic Green Beans with Caramelized Onions brings together the rich flavors of caramelized onions and the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar, creating a dish that is both easy to prepare and a delightful addition to any meal.

The Perfect Holiday Side

This side dish is not only quick to make but also offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. With just a handful of ingredients, you can turn ordinary green beans into a show-stopping dish that pairs perfectly with any holiday feast or weeknight dinner.

Servings: This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 medium onion, cut in half and sliced into small wedges
• 1 pound fresh or frozen (thawed) whole green beans
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Pink Himalayan salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1-1/2 tbsp organic balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp Swerve confectioners or 2 drops of liquid stevia (for a touch of sweetness)
• 1/4 cup toasted chopped or slivered almonds (optional, but highly recommended for added crunch)

Directions

1. Sauté the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion layers to the skillet. Once added, reduce the heat to low-medium and sauté the onions until they become golden brown, stirring often for even cooking.
2. Add the Green Beans: Once the onions are caramelized, add the green beans to the skillet along with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to combine and prevent burning.
3. Simmer Together: Stir in 1/4 cup of water and cover the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 5-7 minutes to let the green beans cook through. If needed, you can add a little more water to ensure they don’t dry out.
4. Incorporate the Garlic: After the initial simmer, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the green beans reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Add the Finishing Touches: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and Swerve (or liquid stevia). Pour this mixture over the green beans, gently stirring to coat them well.
6. Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle the dish with toasted almonds for a lovely crunch and a touch of elegance.

Enjoy Your Balsamic Green Beans!

These Balsamic Green Beans with Caramelized Onions will quickly become a favorite on your holiday table or any day of the week. The combination of sweet balsamic, savory onions, and crunchy almonds makes for a dish that’s not only tasty but visually appealing as well. Pair them with your favorite protein, and enjoy a meal that’s as vibrant as it is delicious!