Garlicky green beans

Garlicky green beans are a quick and flavorful side dish featuring fresh green beans sautéed in butter and garlic. This simple recipe enhances the beans' natural taste and makes for a vibrant addition to any meal.

18 Feb 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup green beans
1 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves

Garlicky green beans are a simple yet delicious side dish that complements a variety of main courses. This recipe combines fresh green beans with the rich flavors of butter and garlic for a quick, easy, and flavor-packed dish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Green Beans:
- Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold running water.
- Trim the ends off the green beans.

2. Blanch the Green Beans (Optional but recommended):
- Bring a medium-sized pot of water to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
- Add the green beans and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender.
- Immediately drain the green beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
- After a few minutes, drain the green beans from the ice water and set them aside.

3. Cook the Garlicky Beans:
- In a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, add the minced garlic.
- Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

4. Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the green beans to the skillet with the garlic and butter.
- Toss to coat the green beans evenly with the garlicky butter.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through and tender-crisp.

5. Season and Serve:
- Season the garlicky green beans with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (optional).
- Transfer the green beans to a serving dish.

6. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately as a delicious side dish to complement your main course.

Following this straightforward recipe, you can quickly prepare garlicky green beans that are sure to impress. The combination of sautéed garlic and butter elevates the natural sweetness of the green beans, making this dish both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for any meal, these garlicky green beans will become a staple in your kitchen.

Garlicky green beans FAQ:

How long do I need to cook the green beans?

Blanch the green beans for about 2-3 minutes in boiling water until they're bright green and slightly tender. Then, sauté them in the skillet for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Simply sauté them directly in the skillet without blanching, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly until they are heated through.

What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free version?

You can substitute olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free option.

How do I store leftovers of garlicky green beans?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain texture.

What should I do if my garlic burns while cooking?

If your garlic starts to burn, immediately remove the skillet from the heat. You can discard the burnt garlic and start again to avoid a bitter taste.

Tips:

- For added crunch, you can blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath before sautéing.

- Make sure to use fresh garlic cloves as they provide a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.

- You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for some extra zest and flavor.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 18kcal
Protein 0.24g
Carbohydrates 0.87g
Fiber 0.28g
Sugar 0.33g
Fat 1.56g

Garlicky green beans