Description
This Buttery Garlic Green Beans recipe offers a delicious and simple way to enjoy fresh green beans. Blanched to retain their vibrant color and tender-crisp texture, then sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce with optional hints of red pepper flakes and lemon juice. It’s a perfect, quick side dish ideal for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Dairy
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasonings & Others
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp and bright green.
- Shock the Green Beans: Drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and retain their color. Drain again after a few minutes and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the beans in the butter and garlic, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Season and Serve: Season the green beans with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Toss again to combine.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Blanching the green beans ensures they retain a bright color and perfect crunch.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for desired level of heat or omit for no spice.
- Lemon juice adds a fresh brightness but can be skipped if preferred.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic for more robust taste.
- Serve immediately for best texture; reheating may soften the beans.
- Can be made gluten-free and suitable for vegetarian diets.
