Simple Steamed Beans with Lemon & Garlic
This simple yet elegant side dish features tender broad beans brightened with fresh lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and a drizzle of quality olive oil, making it the perfect versatile accompaniment to any meal.
For 2 servings
Prepare the Beans: If using fresh broad beans, shell them from their pods. If using frozen, there's no need to thaw them beforehand. Set aside.
Aromatics Prep: Thinly slice or mince the garlic clove. Halve the lemon and be ready to juice it.
Steam the Beans: Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Place a steamer basket over the boiling water, ensuring the water doesn't touch the bottom of the basket. Add the shelled broad beans to the steamer.
Cook to Tenderness: Cover the pot and steam the beans for 3-5 minutes, or until they are just tender-crisp and bright green. Avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy.
Combine & Dress: Immediately transfer the hot, steamed beans to a serving bowl. Add the thinly sliced garlic, a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and the fresh lemon juice.
Season & Serve: Toss gently to combine all ingredients. Season generously with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm as a vibrant side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcook: Broad beans can quickly turn mushy if overcooked. Aim for tender-crisp to retain their texture and vibrant green color.
- 2Double Podding (for fresh beans): For an extra tender and refined dish, after steaming and cooling slightly, you can 'double pod' fresh broad beans by squeezing them out of their tough outer skins. This is optional but results in a more delicate texture.
- 3Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is a primary flavor component, use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- 4Frozen Bean Convenience: Frozen broad beans are a fantastic shortcut. They require no shelling and cook just as quickly, making this dish even faster to prepare.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and olive oil for a subtle heat.
Herby DelightHerby Delight
Incorporate other fresh herbs like dill, chives, or a mix of Mediterranean herbs for different flavor profiles.
Cheesy IndulgenceCheesy Indulgence
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese just before serving for a savory, salty addition.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Broad beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Vitamin & Mineral Boost
They provide essential nutrients like Folate (Vitamin B9), Manganese, Copper, and various B vitamins, contributing to energy metabolism and overall well-being.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean diets, provides monounsaturated fats known to support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
While broad beans have a unique flavor and texture, you can adapt this recipe for green beans or edamame. Adjust cooking times as needed.
