There’s nothing quite like a side dish that elevates the entire meal, and that’s exactly what Garlic Butter Green Beans does! I first stumbled across this delightful combination one cozy afternoon while prepping a family dinner. I had some fresh green beans sitting in the fridge and, feeling adventurous, I decided to jazz them up with garlic and butter. The aroma that filled my kitchen was nothing short of magical, and the flavor? Well, let’s just say I had to fend off my family members from grabbing them straight off the stove!
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity and elegance. It’s perfect for for busy weeknights, or it can steal the show at any holiday dinner. Plus, it only takes around 15 minutes to whip up! So, grab your apron, and let’s get to cooking!
What’s in Garlic Butter Green Beans?
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the star of this dish. They are not only vibrant and crunchy but also a great source of vitamins A, C, and K. I usually prefer using fresh beans, but frozen ones also work in a pinch!
Garlic: Ah, garlic—the magical ingredient that adds depth and flavor to almost any dish. I’m a firm believer that more garlic is often better, so feel free to add a bit extra if you’re a fellow garlic lover!
Butter: This is where the magic truly happens. Butter not only enhances the natural flavor of the green beans, but it also creates a silky sauce that coats every bite. Of course, I prefer using unsalted butter so I can control the seasoning, but use whatever you have on hand.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the entire dish and balances the richness of the butter. Trust me; you won’t want to skip this!
Is Garlic Butter Green Beans Good for You?
You might be wondering, “Is this rich dish actually healthy?” Well, let’s break it down:
Green Beans: Super nutritious and low in calories, these lovely green vegetables are high in fiber, which is great for digestion. They also contain powerful antioxidants.
Garlic: Not only does garlic add flavor, but it also has numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and potentially lowering blood pressure.
Butter: While butter does add some saturated fat, it can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. You could also replace it with olive oil for a healthier alternative if you prefer.
So, while Garlic Butter Green Beans may be a bit indulgent, it can absolutely have a place on your dinner table!
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh green beans (washed and trimmed)
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– Juice of 1 lemon (freshly squeezed)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
This recipe serves about 4 as a side dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Green Beans?
1. Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Then, drain them and place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic is just sad!
3. Drain the green beans from the ice bath and add them to the skillet. Toss everything together until the beans are coated with the garlic butter.
4. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the green beans, then season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Toss again to combine, and remove from heat.
5. Transfer your gorgeous Garlic Butter Green Beans to a serving platter, and enjoy!
Flavor Enhancers and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to switch things up in this dish! Here are a few fun ways to add variety:
– **Add Some Crunch:** Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
– **Cheesy Goodness:** Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top right before serving for an extra flavor punch.
– **Herb it Up:** Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten this up even more!
Next time you need a quick and stunning side, I hope you reach for this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe. The first time I made it, I couldn’t believe how quickly they disappeared from the dinner table. Trust me; your family and friends will thank you for it! And please do let me know how yours turn out—I love hearing about your culinary adventures!