Description
These Pomegranate-Glazed Green Beans are a vibrant, elegant holiday side dish made with crisp-tender green beans, tangy pomegranate molasses, toasted almonds, and fresh pomegranate seeds. Perfect for Christmas dinner menus, Thanksgiving spreads, or festive brunch tables, this naturally gluten-free and vegetarian dish delivers gourmet flavor with simple, fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) green beans, ends trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- ¼ cup fresh pomegranate seeds
- Optional: 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Blanch the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add trimmed green beans and cook for 2–3 minutes until vibrant green and crisp-tender. Transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.
- Prepare the glaze: In a sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in pomegranate molasses, salt, and pepper. Let it thicken for 1 minute.
- Toss and heat: Drain and pat dry the green beans. Add them to the pan and toss to coat. Cook 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Finish and garnish: Transfer to a serving platter. Top with toasted almonds, fresh pomegranate seeds, and optional herbs.
Notes
- Do not skip the ice bath—this keeps the beans crisp and bright.
- Use real pomegranate molasses for the best glaze texture and flavor.
- Toast almonds ahead of time for enhanced crunch and depth.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of crushed red pepper for extra flavor.
- Blanch beans up to 2 days in advance for easy holiday prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Pomegranate-Glazed Green Beans, Holiday Green Bean Recipe, Christmas Side Dish, Green Beans Almondine, Pomegranate Molasses Green Beans, Vegetarian Holiday Sides