French String Beans with Shallots

A delightful and vibrant dish featuring crisp French string beans and sweet, soft shallots, perfect for complementing any meal.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 22

Total Time 37

Course Side Dish

Cuisine French

Servings 4 servings

Calories 120 kcal

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or unsalted butter Use olive oil for a vegan option.
2 large shallots, thinly sliced Alternatively, use thinly sliced onions.
½ cup water Helps to steam the string beans.
12 oz French string beans (haricots verts), trimmed Choose fresh, bright green beans.
½ teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of sugar Balances the flavors.

Heat the olive oil or unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
Add the thinly sliced shallots to the skillet, stirring frequently, and cook until soft and translucent, about 8 minutes.

Add the French string beans, water, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to the skillet.
Increase the heat to high until the mixture comes to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low, steaming the beans for about 8 minutes.
Remove the lid, turn the heat back to high, and cook while stirring frequently until the liquid has evaporated, about 6 minutes.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar as needed. Serve warm.

Choose string beans that snap easily when bent. You can pre-trim the beans ahead of time for quicker preparation.

Keyword Easy Recipe, French string beans, Healthy Side Dish, shallots, Vegetarian