These garlic butter green beans are a quick and tasty side dish! Just cook fresh green beans in butter and add garlic for a wonderful flavor that everyone loves.
Honestly, they pair perfectly with just about anything. I often make a big batch because they disappear fast—it’s like a veggie magic trick! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Green Beans: These are the star of the dish! Opt for vibrant green beans that are firm and crisp. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with frozen green beans, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry first.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness and helps with flavor control. You can also use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if you’re looking for a lighter or vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for powerful flavor, but jarred minced garlic can work if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful that the garlic flavor may be milder.
Red Pepper Flakes: This is optional, but a pinch adds a nice kick! If you want to avoid spiciness, simply leave it out or replace it with a sprinkle of paprika for some color without the heat.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Green Beans?
The key to getting green beans just right is blanching them. This not only makes them bright and crisp, but it also locks in nutrients. Here’s how you do it:
- Boil salted water, and gently add the trimmed green beans.
- Blanch for 3-4 minutes until they turn vibrant green and are tender-crisp.
- I always have ice water ready. Once the beans are done, quickly throw them in the ice water to stop cooking!
- After a quick chill, drain them well to avoid sogginess before adding them to the skillet.
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or lemon zest for extra flavor
Time Estimate:
The total time for this recipe is about 15 minutes—5 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes for cooking. Quick and easy, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the trimmed green beans. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender but still crisp.
2. Ice Bath for the Beans:
Immediately drain the beans and plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This helps stop the cooking process, keeping them vibrant and crunchy. After a minute, drain them again and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once it’s melted and bubbly, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Combine Everything:
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss them well in the garlic butter. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are hot and slightly crisp. This is where all the delicious flavors come together!
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste. For an extra touch, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or lemon zest if you like a bit of kick or brightness. Serve hot as a delightful side dish that everyone will enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil. The flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can blanch and cool the green beans ahead of time, then store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just sauté them with the garlic and butter as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a touch more butter or oil if needed to keep them moist.
