Buttery Garlic Green Beans

Buttery Garlic Green Beans are a quick and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish transforms fresh green beans into a savory treat. The garlic adds depth to the dish while the butter creates a rich, comforting texture. It’s easy to make and ready in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect choice when you’re looking for something quick but delicious to complement your main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Buttery Garlic Green Beans recipe is the ultimate in simplicity and flavor. The combination of fresh green beans, garlic, and butter is classic, yet always satisfying. It’s a side dish that requires minimal prep but delivers big flavor, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or holiday meals. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, and it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with just about any main course.

Ingredients

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

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning (or freshly ground black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice as an alternative)

• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 4-5 minutes until just tender (slightly undercooked is preferred). Drain the green beans and set them aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.

3. Add the cooked green beans to the skillet and toss them in the garlic-butter mixture until evenly coated.

4. Season with lemon-pepper seasoning (or your desired seasoning) and salt to taste.

5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Nuts: For a little crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts.

• Add Parmesan: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the green beans just before serving for a cheesy twist.

• Spice it Up: If you like some heat, sprinkle a little red pepper flake or chili powder into the garlic butter.

• Add Bacon: Crispy bacon bits can be added for an extra savory flavor.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra butter or oil to prevent them from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Fresh green beans are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but frozen green beans can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess water before cooking.

How do I trim green beans quickly?

Line up the green beans so the tips are even, then cut both ends off with one quick motion using a chef’s knife. You can also cut them to your desired length if necessary.

How do I know when green beans are done cooking?

Green beans should be tender but still crisp when fully cooked. For this recipe, it’s better to slightly undercook the beans so they don’t become mushy.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can swap out the butter for olive oil if you prefer a lighter version of this recipe, or for a dairy-free option.

How do I add more flavor to the garlic butter?

Feel free to experiment by adding different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped chili peppers when sautéing the garlic.

Can I prepare the green beans in advance?

While the green beans can be trimmed ahead of time, it’s best to cook and toss them in the garlic butter just before serving to retain their flavor and texture.

What can I serve these garlic green beans with?

These buttery garlic green beans pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or fish. They also complement dishes like mashed potatoes or rice.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, the flavor won’t be as rich. Butter is recommended for the best taste.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While you can freeze the leftovers, green beans tend to lose their crispness when frozen and thawed. For the best results, it’s recommended to enjoy the green beans fresh.

Conclusion

Buttery Garlic Green Beans are a simple yet flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s the perfect go-to recipe for busy nights or festive gatherings. The savory garlic butter sauce complements the fresh green beans beautifully, creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re serving them alongside a weeknight dinner or at a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.