Description
A bold Southern twist on a classic green bean dish—charred, spicy, and bright with citrus. Perfect for any meal, from casual weeknights to festive gatherings.
Ingredients
1 lb fresh green beans, ends trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
A pinch of flaky sea salt
Optional: ¼ cup toasted almonds or chopped walnuts
Optional swap: Haricot verts for a more tender bite
Optional sweet twist: Drizzle of maple syrup near end
Optional earthy twist: Dash of cumin and smoked paprika
Instructions
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high until sizzling hot.
2. Toss green beans with olive oil and red pepper flakes.
3. Add beans to the hot skillet in a single layer. Sauté undisturbed for 2 minutes until blistered.
4. Turn beans, add garlic, continue cooking another 3–4 minutes until tender but crisp.
5. Add lemon zest and soy sauce. Toss to coat, let it sizzle for a final 60 seconds.
6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with sea salt and optional nuts.
7. Serve hot.
Notes
Pairs beautifully with roasted meat or squash casserole.
Green beans are rich in fiber, low in calories, and high in vitamins C and K.
They adapt to global flavors—try with goat cheese, tahini, or stir-fried into grain bowls.
Safe for dogs in moderation—plain and unsalted only.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: green beans, Southern, lemon soy, healthy sides, skillet recipe