Garlic Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce. This classic side dish is incredibly easy to make and pairs perfectly with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled steak.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare for Blanching: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. While the water heats, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes. Set it aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Blanch and Shock the Green Beans: Add the trimmed green beans to the boiling water. Cook for 2-4 minutes, until they turn bright green and are crisp-tender. Immediately use a slotted spoon to transfer the beans to the prepared ice bath. Let them cool completely for 2 minutes to stop the cooking process, then drain thoroughly in a colander.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly. Be careful not to let the garlic brown or burn.
- 4
Combine and Finish: Increase the heat to medium-high
- a.Add the drained green beans to the skillet. Toss well to coat in the garlic butter and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the beans are heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Season and Serve: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to combine. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with toasted sliced almonds, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The blanching and shocking step is crucial for maintaining the beans' vibrant green color and crisp texture. Don't skip it!
- 2Ensure the green beans are completely dry after draining from the ice bath. Excess water will cause them to steam instead of sauté in the pan.
- 3For a deeper, nuttier flavor, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden before using.
- 4You can blanch the green beans up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and proceed with the sautéing step just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a touch of heat.
CheesyCheesy
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the beans just before serving.
NuttyNutty
Use brown butter (beurre noisette) instead of regular melted butter for a richer, more complex flavor.
HerbyHerby
Toss in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or dill at the end for a fresh, herbaceous note.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Green beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health, promoting regularity and a feeling of fullness.
Heart-Healthy Fats
The inclusion of olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
Immunity Support
Garlic contains compounds like allicin, known for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that can help boost the immune system.
Packed with Vitamins
Green beans are a good source of essential vitamins, including Vitamin C for immune function and skin health, and Vitamin K for blood clotting and bone health.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this Garlic Green Beans recipe contains approximately 150-170 calories, making it a light and healthy side dish. The exact count can vary based on the amount of butter, oil, and almonds used.