Description
A unique and refreshing French beans recipe combining tender green beans with sweet white peach slices, aromatic basil, and crunchy almonds, all sautéed in extra virgin olive oil for a light and flavorful dish perfect as a side or a light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Fruits
- 600 g (18oz) green beans, extra thin
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 white peach, sliced finely
Nuts and Herbs
- 1 tablespoon almonds, blanched, unsalted
- 20 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped or torn
Oils and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
- ¼ teaspoon salt (fleur de sel) or Maldon flakes, Celtic sea salt
- Pinch of bicarbonate of soda (optional, for cooking green beans)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Green Beans: Top and tail the green beans by trimming the ends. Then bring a pot of unsalted water to a simmer and cook the green beans for 5-10 minutes until they are al dente. At the last minute of cooking, add a pinch of bicarbonate of soda to the water to help keep the beans vibrant green and tender. Drain the beans and set them aside.
- Prepare Shallot Mixture: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté until it becomes golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the blanched almonds and the cooked green beans to the pan and toss gently to combine and warm through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the chopped or torn basil leaves along with the fleur de sel or Maldon sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish. Finally, top the green beans with the thinly sliced white peach to add a fresh, sweet contrast. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use extra thin green beans for the best texture and ease of cooking.
- A pinch of bicarbonate of soda helps preserve the green color and tenderness of the beans.
- White peach is ideal for its mild sweetness and softness, but yellow peach can be substituted.
- Almonds can be toasted lightly beforehand for extra crunch and flavor.
- This dish works well as a light side or a vegan main course.
