Description
A refreshing and unique French beans recipe that combines tender green beans with sweet white peach slices, toasted almonds, and aromatic basil, all tossed in a light olive oil and shallot dressing. Perfect as a vibrant side dish or a light vegetarian main, this recipe blends savory and sweet flavors in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Fruit
- 600 g (18 oz) extra thin green beans, topped and tailed
- 1 white peach, thinly sliced
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 20 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped or torn
Nuts & Oils
- 1 tablespoon blanched, unsalted almonds
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt (fleur de sel or Maldon flakes or Celtic sea salt)
- Pinch of bicarbonate of soda (for blanching beans)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Green Beans: Top and tail the green beans by trimming off the ends. Bring a pot of unsalted water to a simmer and cook the green beans for 5 to 10 minutes until they are tender but still crisp (al dente). Add a pinch of bicarbonate of soda during the last minute of cooking to help maintain the beans’ bright green color. Drain the beans and set aside.
- Prepare Shallot Mixture: In a sauté pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and cook gently until it turns golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine and Finish: Add the blanched almonds and cooked green beans to the pan with the shallots. Toss gently to combine and warm through, then remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the chopped basil leaves, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to season. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish.
- Add Peach Topping: Arrange the thinly sliced white peach on top of the green beans mixture as a fresh, sweet garnish before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh basil with mint or parsley for a different herbal note.
- Using a pinch of bicarbonate of soda helps keep the beans vividly green and tender; do not overuse as it can affect texture.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm beans and cool peach.
- Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity richness; use a good quality oil for best flavor.
- For a nut-free version, omit the almonds or substitute with toasted sunflower seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
