Green Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Green beans are quick and easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. Their mild flavor is a perfect canvas for many seasonings and additions like garlic, lemon, almonds, or bacon. Plus, they cook quickly while retaining their crunch and nutrients. This recipe highlights the freshness of green beans with a simple, flavorful preparation that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Optional: lemon zest or juice, toasted almonds, or red pepper flakes for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender.

3. Drain the beans and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and preserve their bright green color.

4. Drain again and pat dry.

5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.

6. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

7. Add the green beans and toss to coat, cooking for 3-4 minutes until heated through and slightly tender.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Optional: finish with a squeeze of lemon juice, lemon zest, toasted almonds, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

10. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. Preparation and cooking time totals approximately 15-20 minutes.

Variations

• Roast green beans in the oven with olive oil and garlic for a caramelized flavor.

• Add crispy bacon or pancetta for a smoky touch.

• Toss with toasted sesame seeds and a splash of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired side.

• Mix with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a fresh, summery salad.

• Steam green beans and drizzle with hollandaise or a mustard vinaigrette for an elegant dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooked green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

How do I keep green beans bright green?

Blanch in boiling water, then immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking and preserve color.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but cook them according to package instructions as they require less cooking time.

How do I make green beans crispy?

Roast or sauté at high heat until they develop a slight char and crispness.

Can I prepare green beans ahead of time?

Yes, blanch or cook them in advance, then reheat just before serving.

Are green beans healthy?

Yes, they are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, mix with mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for more variety.

How long should I cook green beans?

Usually 3-5 minutes to retain crispness; longer if you prefer softer beans.

Can I freeze cooked green beans?

Freezing cooked green beans is possible but may alter texture slightly.

How do I season green beans for kids?

Keep it simple with butter and a pinch of salt, avoiding strong spices.

What’s the best way to trim green beans?

Snap or cut off the stem ends before cooking.

Conclusion

Green beans are a classic and nutritious side dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Their fresh flavor and crisp texture complement many meals, and with simple seasoning, they become a delicious, healthy addition to your plate. Whether quickly sautéed with garlic or roasted with bold spices, green beans are sure to be a staple in your kitchen.

Green Beans

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• Author: Ava
• Total Time: 15-20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Green beans are a simple, versatile vegetable side dish with a fresh, crisp texture and vibrant color, easily prepared by steaming, sautéing, roasting, or blanching for a nutritious addition to any meal.

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Ingredients

1. 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
   
   2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
   
   2 cloves garlic, minced
   
   Salt, to taste
   
   Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
   
   Optional: lemon zest or juice, toasted almonds, or red pepper flakes for garnish

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

1. Add the green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender.
2. Drain the beans and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and preserve their bright green color.
3. Drain again and pat dry.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
5. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the green beans and toss to coat, cooking for 3-4 minutes until heated through and slightly tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Optional: finish with a squeeze of lemon juice, lemon zest, toasted almonds, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
9. Serve warm.

Notes

1. Roast green beans with olive oil and garlic for a caramelized flavor.
2. Toss with toasted sesame seeds and soy sauce for an Asian-inspired side.
3. Mix with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a summery salad.
4. Steam and drizzle with hollandaise or mustard vinaigrette for an elegant dish.
5. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
6. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Boiling and sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg