Description
Garlic green beans are a fast, flavorful side dish that bridges Southern comfort and fresh zing with every bite.
Ingredients
Green beans (1 lb, trimmed)
Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
Olive oil (1.5 tbsp)
Salt & cracked black pepper (to taste)
Lemon zest (optional)
Red chili flakes (optional)
Chopped almonds or grated parmesan (optional)
Instructions
1. Rinse and trim your green beans. Snap or cut off the stem ends.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté gently, stirring constantly for 30 seconds.
5. Toss in the green beans and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until slightly golden but still firm.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon zest.
7. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Use fresh green beans for best results.
Add crushed red pepper for heat, or toasted almonds/parmesan for added flavor.
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in skillet for best texture.
Avoid freezing—texture won’t hold up.
Pairs well with roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: green beans, garlic green beans, quick side dish, southern recipe, healthy side