Orange-Mint Green Beans

Since Thanksgiving is all about so many heavy dishes, such as mashed potatoes, gratin and gravies, it’s always nice to have a little bit of green at the table.

These beans are the perfect palate-cleansing side, providing that clean, acidic sweetness, much like the cranberry sauce.  The citrus just pops and will refresh the senses in between spoonfuls of sweet potatoes and turkey.

Best part, serve them room temperature, which means you can make them up a few hours ahead and not worry about getting them to the table hot.  In fact, I’m betting these could be made the day before, refrigerated in the dressing, and re-tossed right before dinner is served.

They are outstanding and a recipe I will use all year.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.  Fill a large bowl with ice and cold water and set nearby.

Drop the green beans (I like to do mine in batches) into the boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes, or until bright green and crisp tender.  Remove the beans from the water and immediately plunge them into the ice water.  When the beans are completely cooled, drain them, then spread on a kitchen towel and pat dry.

In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice concentrate, mint, vinegar and mustard.  Season well with salt and pepper.

In a large bowl, gently toss the beans with the vinaigrette.

Refreshing and perfect!

Orange-Mint Green Beans
From FOODday

3 pounds  green beans, trimmed
1/2 cup orange juice concentrate, thawed
1/2 cup minced fresh mint
2 Tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly ground pepper

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.  Fill a large bowl with ice and cold water and set nearby.

Drop the green beans (I like to do mine in batches) into the boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes, or until bright green and crisp tender.  Remove the beans from the water and immediately plunge them into the ice water.  When the beans are completely cooled, drain them, then spread on a kitchen towel and pat dry.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.  Fill a large bowl with ice and cold water and set nearby.

Drop the green beans (I like to do mine in batches) into the boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes, or until bright green and crisp tender.  Remove the beans from the water and immediately plunge them into the ice water.  When the beans are completely cooled, drain them, then spread on a kitchen towel and pat dry.

In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice concentrate, mint, vinegar and mustard.  Season well with salt and pepper.

In a large bowl, gently toss the beans with the vinaigrette.  Serve room temperature.

Another Citrus Vegetable Dish You Might Like:
Roasted Asparagus with Honey Citrus Dressing