Looking for a quick and flavorful side dish? These Sautéed Green Beans are just what you need. Tossed in garlic and butter (or olive oil for vegans), they’re a delightful addition to any meal. This recipe is not only easy but can elevate the simplest of dinners.
Imagine the satisfying crunch of perfectly sautéed green beans, coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or roasted chicken. Plus, you can whip them up in no time, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
Visual Appeal of Sautéed Green Beans
The vibrant color of sautéed green beans is truly a feast for the eyes. Their bright green hue stands out beautifully when they are cooked to tender perfection.
Served in a simple white bowl, these beans exude a fresh and inviting atmosphere. The glossy finish from the garlic butter adds a touch of elegance, making the dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Flavor Profile
Sautéed green beans are known for their delightful flavor, primarily stemming from the garlic butter coating. This combination elevates their natural taste, allowing the beans to shine while being complemented by rich, buttery notes.
Incorporating fresh parsley as a garnish adds a burst of freshness that brightens the overall flavor. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, enhancing the experience of this side dish.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing sautéed green beans is straightforward and quick. Start by trimming the ends of the beans, then rinse them thoroughly to ensure they are clean.
Melting unsalted butter in a skillet and adding the green beans creates a delicious base. As they sauté, the beans turn bright green and tender-crisp, making them irresistible.
Cooking Techniques
The technique used for sautéing is key to achieving the right texture. Cooking over medium heat allows the green beans to retain their crunch while absorbing the flavors of the garlic and butter.
It’s important to stir occasionally, ensuring that every bean is evenly coated and cooked. Adding minced garlic towards the end of the cooking process prevents it from burning, resulting in a fragrant, flavorful addition.
Serving Suggestions
Sautéed green beans pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. They complement grilled meats and roasted poultry beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast to heavier flavors.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider a splash of lemon juice before serving. This addition brightens the dish and enhances the overall taste experience.
Nutritional Benefits
Green beans are not just a tasty addition to your meals; they also offer several nutritional benefits. Low in calories, they provide a good source of vitamins and minerals.
With a modest calorie count and a mix of carbohydrates and proteins, sautéed green beans can be a healthy side dish option that fits into various dietary plans.
Quick and Flavorful Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans
These sautéed green beans are vibrant and tender, with a buttery garlic flavor that makes them irresistible. They provide a fresh, crunchy texture that balances beautifully with richer main dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (For the vegan option, substitute butter with olive oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Beans: Trim the ends of the green beans and rinse them under cold water. Pat dry.
- Sauté the Beans: In a large skillet, melt the butter (or olive oil for vegans) over medium heat. Add the green beans to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Finish and Serve: If desired, add lemon juice for brightness. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 8g