Once the temperature outside shifts and the first holiday party invitations arrive, I know it’s time to whip out my string bean platter. Every Christmas, Hanukkah, or general holiday party is oversaturated with desserts and dairy-based options. I like that I can bring an easy, and delicious vegetable option that complements the roast turkey and potatoes I know I’ll encounter.
Some background: At the age of 10, my mother called me into the kitchen and said, “I’m going to teach you the world’s easiest dish. I promise it will serve you well.” Dramatic? Yes. Accurate? You bet. Three ingredients later, my mind was blown as my mother handed me a string bean, a glint of pride in her eyes. It was the most delicious vegetable little me had ever eaten.
And I know, string beans aren’t nearly as sexy as mashed sweet potatoes with marshmallows on top. I get it. But this recipe, without fail, makes me and my almost non-existent culinary skills the hit of the party. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve placed my unassuming dish on the serving table and picked it back up completely empty. And then there's the barrage of texts and calls I get the next day requesting the recipe.
So, if an easy crowd-pleaser that grants you the aura of a master chef is your vibe, I recommend my string bean platter for your next holiday gathering.
1 12-oz bag string beans
½ cup red wine vinegar
2 tbsp of dried onion flakes
2 or 3 tbsp salt
1 12-oz bag string beans
½ cup red wine vinegar
2 tbsp of dried onion flakes
2 or 3 tbsp salt
1 12-oz bag string beans
½ cup red wine vinegar
2 tbsp of dried onion flakes
2 or 3 tbsp salt
1. Rinse string beans and break off the stems.
2. Fill pan about ¾ full of water, add 2 or 3 tbsps salt, and set it on the stove to boil.
3. Once boiling, add the string beans. It should only take around 5-7 minutes to boil your string beans. They should feel firm yet slightly limp.
4. Remove the string beans from the boiling water and place them on the serving platter.
5. Pour the red wine vinegar evenly over the string beans.
6. Sprinkle the dried onion flakes evenly across the string beans.
7. Toss the string beans to ensure all have an even coating of vinegar and onions. *You can add more vinegar and onions for a stronger flavor.
8. Serve!
