She Strengthens

Summer’s Bounty: Elevate Your Meals with Haricots Verts

As the summer season unfolds, farmers’ markets are flooded with an array of vibrant green beans, each boasting its unique flavor profile and texture. Among these, haricots verts stand out for their delicate taste and tender crunch.

The Perfect Side Dish

A simple yet elegant preparation brings out the best in these French favorites. A quick blanch followed by a tangy Dijon dressing creates a delightful accompaniment to parchment-baked fish, rosemary-roasted chicken, or a savory steak marinade.

What to Look For

When selecting haricots verts, opt for slender, young green beans with a more delicate flavor than their thicker counterparts. If you can’t find them, substitute with the thinnest, youngest green beans available. Don’t forget to choose a high-quality Dijon mustard or craft your own whole-grain version.

Timing is Everything

To ensure the dressing adheres perfectly to each bean, toss them while still hot. This step also mellows the flavors of the garlic and shallot. Be sure to have the dressing ready when you put the beans in the boiling water.

Recipe Highlights

Yield: 6 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 30 minutes
Active Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallot
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1 medium garlic clove, minced
• 1 pound haricots verts
• 1 tablespoon Whole-Grain Dijon Mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained and finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Combine the shallot, vinegar, and garlic in a large, nonreactive bowl. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

Bring a large saucepan of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat. Meanwhile, prepare the beans by cutting the stem end off each, leaving the wispy tail on. When the water reaches a boil, add the trimmed beans and cook until crisp-tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain well in a colander.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked beans to the dressing and toss until well coated using tongs. Transfer to a flat serving dish, spoon the remaining dressing over top, and sprinkle with parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!