Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker

 
[dropcap]A[/dropcap]dd some flare to your summer spread by grilling up some fresh green beans. A grill plate or grill basket is a great tool for preventing the beans from falling through the grates, though a couple layers of foil will also do the trick. For added sweetness and smokiness, toss the beans ahead of time in a balsamic marinade, then grill until slightly charred and perfectly tender. Eating your greens has never been tastier.

Grilled Balsamic Green Beans

Yield: 3-4 servings
1 pound fresh green beans, washed and trimmed
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt and pepper. Pour the marinade over the green beans and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Heat a grill over medium heat. Place a grill basket or grill plate onto the grill (or a couple layers of heavy duty foil) and place the beans on top. Reserve the marinade for later.

Grill the beans for about 8-10 minutes, tossing them occasionally, until they are slightly charred and blistered. At this point, turn off the heat and close the lid (if using a charcoal grill, place over indirect heat) for about 5 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Remove the beans from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle some of the remaining marinade on top. Serve immediately.