A delightful twist on classic green beans, enhanced with the rich flavor of caramelized shallots and a touch of garlic.
Steam the green beans in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
To retain the vibrant green color, you can immediately transfer the steamed beans to a bowl of ice water.
In a skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter is melted.
Using a combination of butter and olive oil prevents the butter from burning.
Add the shallots to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft and caramelized.
Stir frequently to ensure even caramelization and avoid burning.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Be careful not to overcook the garlic as it can become bitter.
Toss the steamed green beans with the shallot and garlic mixture in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for a balanced flavor.
Serve the green beans warm as a side dish, garnished with a sprinkle of coarse salt if desired.
For a festive touch, garnish with toasted almonds or a drizzle of lemon juice.