Buttered Green Beans
Tender, vibrant green beans tossed in a simple yet delicious garlic butter sauce with a hint of fresh lemon. A classic, comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any main course and is ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the green beans and garlic.
- Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold water.
- Trim the stem ends off the green beans.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
TIPFor a uniform look, you can also trim the tail end, but it's not necessary.Cook the green beans until tender.
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the salt, then carefully add the trimmed green beans. Cook for 4-6 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. For softer beans, cook a few minutes longer. Drain immediately.
TIPDon't overcrowd the pot. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.Make the garlic butter sauce.
While the beans are cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
TIPSwirl the pan continuously to prevent the garlic from browning too quickly.Toss the beans in the sauce.
Add the drained hot green beans to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss well to coat all the beans evenly.
Season and serve.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, sprinkle with black pepper, and toss one last time. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For brighter green beans, prepare an ice bath. After boiling, immediately transfer the beans to the ice water to stop the cooking process, then drain and proceed with the recipe.
- 2Ensure the green beans are well-drained to prevent the butter sauce from becoming watery.
- 3You can use frozen green beans if fresh are not available. Cook them according to package directions before tossing in the butter sauce.
- 4For a bit of crunch, add some toasted slivered almonds just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Substitute the butter with a high-quality vegan butter or olive oil for a delicious dairy-free version.
high proteinHigh protein
Add a handful of toasted slivered almonds or sunflower seeds at the end for extra protein and a pleasant crunch.
spicySpicy
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic to give the dish a gentle, warming heat.
healthyHealthy
Reduce the butter to 1.5 tablespoons and steam the green beans instead of boiling to retain more nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Green beans are a good source of Vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and Vitamin K, which is important for bone health.
Good Source of Fiber
The dietary fiber in green beans helps aid digestion, promotes gut health, and can help you feel full and satisfied.
Contains Antioxidants
Green beans contain antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids, which help fight free radicals in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it can be a healthy side dish. Green beans are a great source of vitamins and fiber. While butter adds calories, this recipe uses it in moderation to add flavor. For a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of butter.
