Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Green Beans are the perfect side dish to complement any meal. The green beans are cooked until crisp-tender and then tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that’s irresistible. The added touch of lemon zest, while optional, brightens the flavor and elevates the dish with a refreshing citrus kick. This simple yet flavorful recipe is quick to make, versatile, and works with any main course, from chicken to steak to fish.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh green beans (string beans), ends trimmed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning the boiling water
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Water for Blanching: Place 6 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of salt in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cover and bring it to a boil.
Prepare the Ice Bath: Meanwhile, fill a large bowl with ice and water. Line a sheet pan with a few sheets of paper towels and set them aside.
Blanch the Green Beans: Carefully add the trimmed green beans into the boiling water. Cook for 5 minutes, until the beans are crisp and tender.
Cool the Beans: Using a slotted spoon or a spider strainer, transfer the green beans into the ice water. Let them cool to room temperature for about 5 minutes. Once cooled, drain the beans and transfer them onto the sheet pan lined with paper towels. Pat them dry as much as possible.
Cook the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet (10 or 12-inch), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toss the Green Beans: Add the green beans to the skillet and gently stir to coat them in the garlic butter mixture. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, turning the beans often, until they are softened but still tender.
Add Lemon Zest (Optional): If you like, toss in the lemon zest at the last minute for an added burst of flavor.
Serve: Transfer the garlic butter green beans to a plate and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Garlic Butter Green Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a little heat.
Parmesan Garlic Butter Green Beans: Toss in some grated Parmesan cheese at the end for a cheesy, savory twist.
Herbed Garlic Butter Green Beans: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil along with the garlic for an herby flavor.
Garlic Bacon Green Beans: Crisp up some bacon and toss it with the green beans for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover garlic butter green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or microwave in a covered dish for about 1 minute until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just be sure to thaw and dry them before following the recipe.

2. Can I skip the ice bath step?

While the ice bath is essential for stopping the cooking process and preserving the vibrant green color, you can skip it if you’re in a hurry. Just be aware that the texture may not be as crisp.

3. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is ideal for this recipe, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute garlic powder (about ½ teaspoon) for the two cloves of garlic.

4. Can I make these green beans ahead of time?

These green beans are best served fresh, but you can prepare them up to a day ahead. Store them in the fridge and reheat them in a skillet with a little butter before serving.

5. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter adds a rich flavor to this recipe, margarine can be used as a substitute, though the taste will differ slightly.

6. Can I add nuts to the green beans?

Yes, toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts would be a great addition, adding crunch and extra flavor.

7. How do I avoid overcooking the garlic?

Garlic can burn quickly, so always cook it on medium heat and keep an eye on it. Stir constantly, and once it’s fragrant (about 30 seconds), move on to the next step.

8. What can I serve these garlic butter green beans with?

These green beans pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted meats, fish, or a hearty steak. They also make a great side for Thanksgiving or any holiday dinner.

9. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like asparagus or broccoli along with the green beans for a more colorful and diverse side dish.

10. Can I make the green beans spicy?

Yes, if you like heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Green Beans are a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the best in green beans. With the rich, savory taste of garlic and butter, combined with the optional lemon zest, this recipe adds a fresh, zesty twist. Perfect for any occasion, these green beans are quick to make and are sure to be a hit at your next meal!