These Garlic Butter Green Beans are a tasty side dish that everyone will love! Crisp green beans are tossed in rich butter, and garlic brings out a wonderful flavor.
They’re super easy to make and can brighten up any meal. Plus, who can resist that buttery goodness? I often make extra so I can snack on them right from the pan! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the star of this dish! Look for bright, crisp ones without blemishes. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen green beans; just adjust the cooking time.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the flavors without adding extra salt. You can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always best for taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a little kick! Skip them if you prefer no spice, or substitute with black pepper for a milder flavor.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. Lime works too, and if you don’t have either, a splash of vinegar can add a little acidity.
How Do I Ensure the Green Beans Stay Crisp?
The key to keeping green beans crisp lies in the blanching process. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by boiling the green beans in salted water for just a few minutes — they should be bright green and tender but still have a bit of crunch.
- Immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps lock in that vibrant color and keeps them firm.
After they’re cooled, drain and pat them dry. This step makes a big difference when you toss them in that delicious garlic butter!
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon wedge (for garnish and optional squeeze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious side dish that’s ready in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
2. Cool the Beans:
Immediately drain the green beans and transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water. This stops the cooking and keeps their vibrant color. After a few minutes, drain them again and gently pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, making sure not to let it burn.
4. Combine Beans and Garlic:
Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss them to coat thoroughly in the garlic butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the green beans are heated through and tender-crisp.
5. Season and Serve:
Season the green beans with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer them to a serving dish and garnish with a lemon wedge. If desired, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the beans right before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy this vibrant, buttery, and garlicky side dish fresh! Perfect for any meal!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but the texture may be a bit softer since they’re blanched before freezing. Just sauté them straight from frozen, increasing the cooking time slightly until they’re heated through and tender.
How Can I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Green Beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
What Herbs or Spices Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added for extra flavor. A sprinkle of lemon zest can also enhance the dish. If you like it spicy, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper too!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil. The flavor will still be delicious and you’ll have a delightful plant-based side dish!
