Haricots Verts
Dîner • France
À propos de Haricots Verts
French green beans — steamed with butter or vinaigrette
How to Make Haricots Verts (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Haricots Verts, or French green beans, are a beloved classic in French cuisine. Known for their slender shape and vibrant green color, these tender beans are a staple at traditional French dinners, especially in the regions of Provence and Burgundy. Haricots Verts are often enjoyed as a side dish or a light main course, paired with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of toasted almonds. Their crisp texture and delicate flavor make them a highlight of French vegetable cookery. This dish highlights the simplicity and elegance of French cooking, emphasizing fresh, seasonal produce. Its clean, vegetal taste and minimal seasoning allow the natural sweetness of the green beans to shine. Haricots Verts are quick to prepare, making them a practical choice for busy weeknights or festive occasions. Their popularity in France is a testament to how simple ingredients, thoughtfully prepared, can create a memorable and nutritious meal. If you’re looking for a vegan, vegetarian, and calorie-conscious recipe that captures the essence of French dining, this is the perfect dish to add to your repertoire.
Ingredients(for 1 medium plate (about 120g cooked beans))
- 250g Haricots Verts (French green beans) (trimmed)
- 1 tablespoon Extra-virgin olive oil (cold-pressed preferred)
- 1 small Shallot (finely chopped)
- 1 clove Garlic (finely minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Lemon zest (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons Toasted sliced almonds (amandes effilées) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley (chopped) - optional
- to taste Sea salt (fine)
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper (optional) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes.
5 minutes
Blanching keeps beans vibrant and crisp.
- 2
Add the haricots verts to the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still bright green.
4 minutes
Do not overcook; beans should be al dente.
- 3
Immediately transfer the beans to the ice bath to stop the cooking and preserve their color. Drain after 2 minutes.
2 minutes
Shock beans to lock in nutrients and texture.
- 4
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3 minutes
Avoid browning the garlic to prevent bitterness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This traditional French Haricots Verts recipe is a healthy choice because it focuses on high-quality vegetables, minimal oil, and nutrient-rich garnishes. It’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets. The combination of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats helps promote satiety, blood sugar control, and digestive health, making it a smart option for anyone seeking a nutritious, balanced meal.
Haricots Verts are a powerhouse of nutrition, providing dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, while almonds supply plant-based protein and vitamin E. This dish is naturally low in calories and saturated fat, making it suitable for weight management and heart health. The inclusion of lemon and fresh herbs increases antioxidants, which support immune function and overall wellness.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use the thinnest, freshest green beans you can find for authentic flavor.
- 💡Toast almonds just before serving to maximize crunch and aroma.
- 💡Squeeze lemon juice over the dish right before serving for a vibrant finish.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or enjoy cold as a salad.
Best served: Lunch or Dinner
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 35.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5.0 g |
| Total Fat | 1.0 g |
| Fiber | 3.0 g |
