Everyone is always looking for a good side dish and I recently created a “keeper”! I wanted to make something different and originated a new, healthy recipe. I have since served it during many get-togethers and it is always a hit!

The trick is to watch it carefully to make sure the vegetables do not overcook.  Vegetables should always look bright and healthy, not dark and droopy. This dish also looks beautiful when it is finished.  Find a decorative serving dish to put it on and enjoy!

Ingredients for French Green Beans and Tomatoes
1 package 8 oz. French Green Beans
1 package (10.5 oz) Grape tomatoes, cut into halves
3 tbsp. olive oil
3 tbsp. margerine or butter
6 cloves garlic, chopped
1/2 half red onion, chopped
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp. Kosher salt
1/4 tsp. pepper

Melt butter with olive oil in pan over medium heat.

When the mixture gets hot, add the onions and the salt and pepper.

Cook until the onions turn brown, about 10-15 minutes.

Add garlic, cook for  ONE minute.

Add tomatoes and cook for only about 3 minutes.

Add balsamic vinegar and lemon juice.

When tomatoes start to soften, add the green beans.

Cook for about 3 minutes, take the pan off the heat.

Place aluminum foil over pan covering it completely.

Green beans will continue to cook.  Leave dish for 3 minutes.  Uncover.  Green beans should be crispy and ready to serve.

It’s that simple!