Garlic and lemon skillet green beans

Garlic and Lemon Skillet Green Beans are a vibrant side dish that combines sautéed green beans with aromatic garlic and zesty lemon for a fresh flavor profile. This quick recipe emphasizes the crispness of the beans enhanced by a hint of heat from red pepper flakes.

31 Dec 2025
Cook time 16 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups green beans
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp lemon zest
1/2 tsp red pepper (spice)
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 dash salt

Garlic and Lemon Skillet Green Beans are a quick and easy side dish that's bursting with fresh flavors. Simple yet flavorful, this recipe combines the crisp texture of green beans with the zest and tang of garlic and lemon, making it a perfect accompaniment for any meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash and trim the ends of the green beans.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Zest the lemon to get 1 tsp of zest and squeeze the lemon juice to get 2 tbsp.

2. Heat the Skillet:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. Cook the Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.

4. Add the Green Beans:
- Add the green beans to the skillet and toss to coat them with the garlic and oil.

5. Season and Sauté:
- Sprinkle in the 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes and 1 dash of salt.
- Sauté the green beans for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and start to get a bit of color.

6. Add Lemon Flavors:
- Once the green beans are cooked to your liking, reduce the heat to low. Add 1 tsp of lemon zest and 2 tbsp of lemon juice to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine.

7. Final Touch:
- Give the green beans a taste. Adjust seasonings if necessary by adding a dash more salt or lemon juice.

8. Serve:
- Transfer the garlic and lemon green beans to a serving dish and enjoy hot.

This delightful Garlic and Lemon Skillet Green Beans recipe makes a vibrant and tasty side dish that will complement a variety of main courses. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, it's a must-try for anyone looking to add a fresh and zesty touch to their meal.

Garlic and lemon skillet green beans FAQ:

How long do I sauté the green beans?

Sauté the green beans for 6-8 minutes until they are tender-crisp and start to get a bit of color. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. However, first blanch them in hot water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing to help retain their texture.

What can I substitute for red pepper flakes?

If you don't have red pepper flakes, you can use cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a similar heat level.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover garlic and lemon green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.

What other seasonings can I add to enhance flavor?

You can add crushed black pepper, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips:

- Trim the ends of the green beans before cooking to ensure a uniform texture and faster cooking time.

- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to the skillet. This will help retain their bright color and crisp texture.

- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.

- You can adjust the amount of red pepper based on your spice preference.

- Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 22kcal
Protein 1.24g
Carbohydrates 5g
Fiber 1.71g
Sugar 2.18g
Fat 3.54g

Garlic and lemon skillet green beans