Green beans with garlic burnt butter

Green beans with garlic burnt butter is a quick and elegant side dish featuring blanched green beans tossed in rich browned butter with garlic, fresh thyme, and crunchy almonds. This recipe delivers a delightful combination of nutty and aromatic flavors.

22 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup green beans
2 tbsp almonds
1/4 cup butter
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp fresh thyme

Green beans with garlic burnt butter is a luxurious yet straightforward side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The nuttiness of the browned butter combined with the aromatic garlic and fresh thyme elevates ordinary green beans to a gourmet level. Almonds add a pleasant crunch, making this dish a delightful symphony of flavors and textures.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Green Beans:
- Rinse and trim the ends of the green beans.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the green beans for about 3-4 minutes, until they are just tender but still crisp.
- Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and keep their vibrant green color. Drain and set aside.

2. Toast the Almonds:
- In a dry skillet, over medium heat, add the roughly chopped almonds.
- Toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Burnt Butter:
- In the same skillet, add the butter over medium heat.
- Allow the butter to melt and then start to brown, swirling the pan occasionally. This should take about 4-5 minutes. The butter will foam and then transition to a deep golden brown. Be careful not to let it burn.
- As soon as the butter starts to brown, add the minced garlic and chopped thyme.
- Cook for another minute, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant and golden but not burnt.

4. Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the garlic burnt butter.
- Toss to coat the green beans thoroughly with the butter mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently stir in the toasted almonds.

5. Serve:
- Transfer the green beans with garlic burnt butter to a serving dish.
- Optionally, garnish with a few additional thyme sprigs or a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper.
- Serve immediately while warm.

Green beans with garlic burnt butter is a delectable dish that's both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. The rich, deep flavors of the browned butter combined with the crispness of the beans and the crunch of the almonds make it a standout side for any meal. Enjoy this dish fresh and savor the harmony of simple ingredients brought together to create something special.

Green beans with garlic burnt butter FAQ:

What is the ideal cooking time for green beans when blanching?

Blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes. This ensures they are just tender but still crisp before plunging them into ice water.

How can I tell if the burnt butter is properly cooked?

The butter should turn a deep golden brown and have a nutty aroma. It will foam as it cooks, so watch closely to prevent it from burning.

Can I store leftover green beans with garlic burnt butter?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to avoid sogginess.

What can I substitute for almonds in this recipe?

You can use pine nuts or walnuts as substitutes for almonds. Both will add a similar crunch, but pine nuts will have a slightly different flavor.

What pan size is recommended for making garlic burnt butter?

A medium skillet is recommended for making the garlic burnt butter. This allows enough space for the butter to brown evenly and the garlic to cook without burning.

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure to use fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture.

- Brown the butter slowly over medium heat to ensure a rich, nutty flavor without burning it.

- Slice the garlic thinly to maximize its flavor without overwhelming the dish.

- Toast the almonds lightly in a dry pan before adding to enhance their flavor and crunch.

- Serve immediately to enjoy the green beans at their peak tenderness and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 160kcal
Protein 2.34g
Carbohydrates 3.37g
Fiber 2.02g
Sugar 1.04g
Fat 16g

Green beans with garlic burnt butter