Ina Garten’s String Beans with Shallots is a beautifully simple and flavorful side dish that brings out the best in fresh green beans. Tender-crisp beans are tossed with sweet, caramelized shallots and just a touch of seasoning, creating a side that’s light, bright, and perfect for pairing with almost any main course.

This recipe is quick to prepare but impressive enough for holidays, dinners with guests, or even weeknight meals.

What Are Ina Garten’s String Beans with Shallots?

This dish features string beans (also known as green beans) that are blanched until crisp-tender, then sautéed briefly with thinly sliced shallots, cooked until caramelized and sweet. The result is a simple yet sophisticated vegetable side with plenty of flavor and vibrant color.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s String Beans with Shallots

Fresh and vibrant flavor – Highlights the natural sweetness of beans
Quick and easy – Ready in under 20 minutes
Pairs with many dishes – Versatile and crowd-pleasing
Minimal ingredients – Simple pantry staples
Healthy side dish – Naturally low in calories and high in nutrients
Elegant presentation – Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals
Make-ahead friendly – Blanch beans ahead and finish before serving

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten String Beans with Shallots

1½ pounds fresh string beans (green beans), trimmed
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons good olive oil
3 large shallots, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten String Beans with Shallots

Step 1: Blanch the beans

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the string beans and cook for 2–3 minutes, until just tender but still bright green. Drain immediately and plunge into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain again and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the shallots

In a large sauté pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown.

Step 3: Sauté the beans

Add the blanched string beans to the pan with the shallots. Toss well to coat and heat through, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Season and serve

Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss once more and serve hot.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten String Beans with Shallots

Roast chicken or turkey – Classic, comforting pairing
Grilled salmon or halibut – Light and healthy combination
Beef tenderloin or prime rib – Adds a fresh, crisp element
Pasta dishes – Balances out richer meals
Holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas – Festive and elegant side
Simple rice pilaf or couscous – Completes the meal

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten String Beans with Shallots

Use very fresh green beans – For the best texture and color
Blanch quickly – Keeps beans tender-crisp and bright green
Cool beans immediately in ice water – Stops overcooking
Slice shallots thinly – Helps them caramelize evenly
Don’t overcook the beans when sautéing – Keep them crisp
Season just before serving – Preserves freshness and crunch
Use good butter and olive oil – Enhances the simple flavors

Creative Variations of Ina Garten String Beans with Shallots

Add a splash of balsamic vinegar – Sweet and tangy touch
Top with toasted almonds or pine nuts – Adds crunch and flavor
Mix in crispy pancetta or bacon – For a savory upgrade
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving – Rich, nutty flavor
Toss with lemon zest and juice – Brightens the dish
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes – A little heat for contrast
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms – For a hearty variation

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten String Beans with Shallots

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator – Best within 2 days
Reheat gently – To preserve texture
Store shallots and beans together – Keeps flavor balanced
Do not freeze – Texture becomes mushy after thawing

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten String Beans with Shallots

Stovetop: Reheat gently in a sauté pan with a splash of olive oil – Best texture retention
Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring halfway through – Quick option
Avoid high heat – Prevents beans from becoming soggy
Toss with a little fresh butter or olive oil before serving – Revives flavors

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 180
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 250mg

A healthy, flavorful side that fits perfectly into balanced meals.

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s string beans with shallots ahead of time?

Yes, you can blanch the green beans and caramelize the shallots ahead of time. Just toss them together and warm briefly before serving.

How do you keep green beans bright green when cooking?

Blanch the green beans in boiling salted water, then immediately plunge them into an ice water bath to lock in their vibrant color.

What can I substitute for shallots in this recipe?

If you don’t have shallots, you can use thinly sliced sweet onions or red onions for a similar sweet, mild flavor.

Should you cover green beans while sautéing with shallots?

No, sauté uncovered to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and keep the beans crisp rather than steaming them.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s String Beans with Shallots is a simple yet elegant side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of fresh green beans and combines it with the savory richness of caramelized shallots. Light, flavorful, and quick to prepare, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for both everyday meals and special gatherings.