Sunday Rewind: Mixing It Up With Balsamic Vinegar

 – Originally posted June 15, 2012.As The Rantings of an Amateur Chef has been going since February of 2012, there are quite a few readers that have joined along the way. In an effort to bring back some great recipes that they may have missed, I will dedicate Sundays to re-posting a favorite that is at least two years old. I hope you enjoy! – The Ranting Chef

While I am a big fan of simple steamed vegetables, there are times when it pays to mix things up a bit.

Every once in a while I will go through my pantry, spice drawer, fridge or freezer, take stock of the contents and then look for recipes that I can make with what I have. Several years ago, I happened to have two full bottles of balsamic vinegar and went on the recipe hunt to look for a number of recipes where I could showcase this great ingredient. This was one of the keepers.

This is such a simple dish but really adds a great flavor to green beans.

Looks and tastes great.

I used thin green beans and as I didn’t have shallots on hand, used a little onion in its place.

Saute the onions.

Add the vinegar.

Balsamic-Glazed Green Beans

Prep Time: 2 minutes |  Cook Time: 6 minutes  | Servings: 4 servings (serving size: 3/4 cup) | Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients:

• 1 (12-ounce) package trimmed green beans
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 tablespoons minced shallots (about 2)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Microwave green beans according to package directions.

2. While beans cook, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic; cook, stirring constantly, 2 minutes. Stir in vinegar, salt, and pepper; cook 1 minute. Add beans, tossing to coat.

Source: http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=50400000104930