Bring a pot of salted water to a boil over medium heat. Adding salt to the water not only helps water boil faster but will also help the beans not stick together.
Place the beans in the pot of boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes. At this point, your beans will go from dull green to bright green! This is known as blanching.
Heat oil over medium heat and add shallots to cook for about 2-3 minutes. They should look golden in color. Using a slotted spoon, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate.
Wipe the skillet clean or grab another one and add sugar and balsamic vinegar. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until the mixture has reduced by half. Stir occasionally until nice and thick.
Fresh Green Bean with Bacon and Shallots is a quick and easy side dish made with tender-crisp beans coated in a sweet balsamic sauce and served topped with crunchy onions, crispy bacon, and shallots.