Description

Craving a simple, flavorful side dish that elevates any meal? Buttery Garlic Green Beans is the perfect solution! This quick recipe features crisp-tender green beans sautéed in rich butter with fragrant garlic, finished with a hint of lemon-pepper seasoning for a zesty kick. Ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or as a healthy complement to grilled meats, these green beans are easy to prepare and bursting with savory goodness.

Ingredients

This green bean dish comes together with ingredients that create a savory, vibrant side. Here’s what you need and why each matters:

Fresh Green Beans (1 lb, trimmed and snapped in half): The crisp, vibrant base of the dish, providing texture and freshness.
Butter (3 tbsp): Adds rich, creamy flavor and helps sauté the garlic and beans.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses a fragrant, savory depth that’s key to the dish.
Lemon-Pepper Seasoning (⅛ tsp, or more to taste): Contributes a zesty, slightly spicy tang.
Salt (to taste): Enhances all flavors and balances the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

Green Beans: Use frozen green beans (thaw and pat dry); adjust cooking time to 2–3 minutes for simmering. Asparagus or snap peas can also work.
Butter: Swap for olive oil, vegan butter, or ghee for a dairy-free or different flavor profile.
Garlic: Use ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp jarred minced garlic if fresh isn’t available, but fresh is best for aroma.
Lemon-Pepper Seasoning: Replace with a pinch of lemon zest and black pepper, or use Old Bay or Cajun seasoning for a different twist.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure lemon-pepper seasoning is gluten-free.
Add-Ins: Mix in 2 tbsp toasted almonds, crumbled bacon, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra texture or flavor.

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Instructions

Follow these steps to create Buttery Garlic Green Beans that are crisp, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned:

Prepare the Green Beans:
- Trim the ends of 1 lb fresh green beans and snap them in half for bite-sized pieces.
- Place the green beans in a large skillet and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer until the beans just start to soften, about 3–5 minutes.
Drain and Sauté:
- Drain the green beans and return them to the skillet.
- Add 3 tbsp butter and stir over medium heat until melted, about 1–2 minutes.
Add Garlic:
- Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic and cook until tender and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Season and Serve:
- Season with ⅛ tsp lemon-pepper seasoning (or more to taste) and salt to taste.
- Stir to coat the green beans evenly.
- Serve hot or warm, transferring to a serving dish or bowl for presentation.

Cooking Tips

Crisp-Tender Texture: Simmer green beans just until they soften slightly (3–5 minutes) to retain crunch; avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
Fresh Garlic: Mince garlic finely and add it after the butter melts to avoid burning, which can make it bitter.
Butter Control: Melt butter over medium heat to coat the beans evenly without browning excessively.
Season to Taste: Start with ⅛ tsp lemon-pepper and a pinch of salt, then adjust after tasting to balance flavors.
Fresh Beans: Choose firm, bright green beans without spots for the best texture and flavor; rinse and dry before cooking.