Sautéed Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans tossed in a hot skillet with garlic and a hint of lemon. This quick side dish comes together in 15 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples.
For 4 servings
- prep
Trim and wash the green beans.
Snip off the stem ends of the green beans. Rinse under cold water and pat completely dry with a clean kitchen towel.
TIPDry beans sear better — any water on them will steam instead of sauté. - saute · ~4 min
Sauté the garlic.
1.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.2.Add sliced garlic and cook until fragrant and just turning golden (30-45 seconds). - saute · ~10 min
Cook the green beans.
1.Add green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil.2.Spread into an even layer and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to get some char.3.Toss and continue cooking 5-7 minutes more, stirring occasionally, until bright green and crisp-tender.TIPDon't crowd the pan — use a wide skillet so beans sit in a single layer for the best browning. - mix · ~1 min
Season and finish.
1.Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, then toss well.2.Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the beans. - serve
Transfer to a serving bowl and serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pat green beans completely dry after washing to ensure they sear, not steam.
- 2Use a wide skillet so beans sit in a single layer for even charring.
- 3Don't move the beans for the first 2 minutes; let them blister for flavor.
- 4Slice garlic thinly so it infuses the oil without burning before beans are done.
- 5Taste a bean after 5 minutes of cooking to check for your preferred doneness.
- 6Make ahead: blanch beans in salted boiling water for 2 minutes, then shock in ice water and refrigerate; sauté just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Asian-inspired
Swap olive oil for sesame oil and replace lemon juice with a splash of soy sauce and rice vinegar. Add toasted sesame seeds at the end for a nutty, umami twist.
almond crunchAlmond-crunch
Toss in 2 tablespoons of slivered almonds when you add the green beans; toast them alongside for extra crunch and a buttery flavor.
spicy chiliSpicy chili
Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes along with the garlic for gentle heat, and finish with a drizzle of Chili Crisp oil for extra depth.
low sodiumLow-sodium
Omit the added salt and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or garlic powder for savory flavor without sodium.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin K
Green beans provide a hefty dose of vitamin K, which supports bone health and proper blood clotting.
Good Source of Fiber
A serving of these beans contributes dietary fiber, aiding digestion and helping you feel full longer.
Low in Calories
This light side dish is naturally low in calories, making it a great addition to any balanced meal.
Contains Antioxidants
Green beans supply antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids that help combat oxidative stress.
Frequently asked questions
They should be bright green, tender but still offer a slight snap when bitten—typically after 5-7 minutes of sautéing.
