Green Bean Side Dish: 7 Flavorful Twists You'll Love
Transform your green beans into a vibrant and delicious side dish with seven flavorful variations! This recipe is quick, healthy, and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Colander
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- red pepper flakes for spicy variation
- lemon juice or zest for brightness
- soy sauce for Asian-style variation
- Parmesan cheese or feta optional topping
Instructions
- Wash and trim your green beans, removing the ends. Mince the garlic and set aside.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the green beans. Cook for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cooked green beans to the skillet, tossing them to coat in the garlic-infused oil.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender but still bright green.
- Remove from heat and serve warm. Add any optional toppings or variations before serving.
Notes
Try variations like spicy garlic (add red pepper flakes), lemon garlic (add lemon juice and zest), or Asian-style (add soy sauce and sesame seeds). Avoid overcooking for the best color and texture.