Garlic Green Beans
These vibrant, tender-crisp green beans are sautéed with plenty of aromatic garlic and a touch of butter for a perfect, restaurant-quality side dish.
Ingredients
- •1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- •2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- •1 tablespoon olive oil
- •4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- •1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- •1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- •1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- •1 tablespoon toasted sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and prepare a bowl of ice water nearby.
- 2
Blanch the green beans in the boiling water for 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, then immediately transfer them to the ice bath to stop the cooking.
- 3
Drain the beans well and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- 4
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter is melted and foaming.
- 5
Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, being careful not to burn it.
- 6
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss well to coat in the garlic butter.
- 7
Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the beans are heated through and slightly blistered in spots.
- 8
Remove from heat, stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and garnish with toasted almonds if using.
💡 Chef tips
- Do not skip the ice bath; it is essential for keeping the beans vibrant green and preventing them from becoming mushy.
- If you prefer a deeper flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat quickly in a hot pan.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished green beans should be bright green, tender yet crisp to the bite, and coated in a fragrant, golden garlic-butter sauce that smells savory and fresh.