Balsamic roasted green beans combine balsamic vinegar, caramelized garlic, and finished with a touch of orange zest. This recipe is vegan and ready in 30 minutes. Enjoy it as a side dish when green beans are in season or as a showstopper on your holiday table!
1lbfresh green beanstrimmed (See notes if using frozen beans)
3clovesgarlicthinly sliced
2tbspLight olive oil*or other heat tolerant olive oil
1 and ½ tbspbalsamic vinegarplus extra for drizzling
1tsporange zest
¼cupsliced almonds (optional)toasted
½tspsea salt
¼tspfreshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Green Beans
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash and trim green beans. Pat the beans dry, very dry. If they have moisture they will steam instead of roast. Toss the green beans, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sliced garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. You want to make sure all beans are evenly coated.
Toss the green beans, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sliced garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. You want to make sure all beans are evenly coated.
Oven Roast
Arrange green beans in a single layer on the baking sheet. Spread out for even roasting. If they are too close together, they will steam. Bake for 15-18 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. You will know the beans are ready when they are bright green, tender and crispy on the edges.
Toast Almonds (Optional)
While beans roast, toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. You want the almonds to be golden and slightly fragrant. Set aside.
Finish and Serve
Remove beans from the oven, sprinkle with orange zest, and toss gently. Transfer to a serving platter, drizzle with a touch more balsamic vinegar, and sprinkle with toasted almonds for crunch.
Notes
Olive Oil: You will want to use a heat-tolerant olive oil with a smoke point above 425. Olive oil that is labeled ‘light’ or ‘pure’ is heat tolerant. You can also use avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or refined canola oil. Make Ahead Tip: Prep the beans and garlic a day ahead, then toss with oil and roast right before serving.Storage Instructions
Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Freezing: I do not recommend freezing balsamic green beans. They will loose their texture and not be as good.