Description

Craving a simple, flavorful side dish that elevates any meal with minimal effort? What if you could transform fresh green beans into a buttery, garlicky delight in just 15 minutes? Say hello to Buttery Garlic Green Beans! This quick recipe combines crisp-tender green beans with rich butter, fragrant garlic, and a hint of lemon-pepper seasoning for a versatile side that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Green Beans

Fresh Green Beans (1 pound, trimmed and snapped in half): The crisp, vibrant base of the dish, offering a tender yet snappy texture.
Butter (3 tbsp): Adds rich, creamy flavor and helps coat the beans.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings bold, aromatic savoriness.
Lemon-Pepper Seasoning (⅛ tsp, or more to taste): Provides a zesty, peppery kick with citrusy notes.
Salt (to taste): Enhances and balances the overall flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Green Beans: Use frozen green beans (thawed and patted dry) or haricots verts for a thinner, more delicate option; adjust cooking time slightly.
Butter: Swap with olive oil, ghee, or vegan butter for dietary needs.
Garlic: Replace with ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tbsp minced shallots for a milder flavor.
Lemon-Pepper Seasoning: Substitute with ⅛ tsp black pepper plus ½ tsp lemon zest, or use Cajun or Italian seasoning for a different twist.
Salt: Use kosher salt, sea salt, or a pinch of smoked salt for varied flavor.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Use vegan butter or olive oil; recipe is naturally vegetarian.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure lemon-pepper seasoning is gluten-free (most are).

Optional Additions

Herbs: Sprinkle 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or dill for freshness.
Nuts: Add 2 tbsp toasted slivered almonds, pine nuts, or pecans for crunch.
Spices: Mix in ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.

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Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:
- Trim ends and snap 1 pound fresh green beans in half; rinse under cold water.
- Mince 3 garlic cloves finely.
- Measure 3 tbsp butter, ⅛ tsp lemon-pepper seasoning, and salt to taste.
- Tip: Trim beans by lining up ends and cutting multiple at once; mince garlic just before cooking to preserve flavor.
Blanch the Green Beans:
- Place green beans in a large skillet and cover with water (about 4–5 cups).
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer until beans just start to soften, about 3–5 minutes.
- Drain beans in a colander and return them to the skillet.
- Tip: Test a bean at 3 minutes; they should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Drain thoroughly to avoid watery results.
Sauté with Butter and Garlic:
- Add 3 tbsp butter to the skillet with the drained beans over medium heat.
- Stir until butter melts and coats the beans, about 1–2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until tender and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
- Tip: Keep stirring to prevent garlic from burning; lower heat if butter browns too quickly.
Season and Serve:
- Sprinkle ⅛ tsp lemon-pepper seasoning and salt to taste over the beans.
- Stir to combine and cook for 30 seconds to meld flavors.
- Transfer to a serving bowl or plates and serve warm, garnishing with parsley or nuts if desired.
- Pair with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or steak for a complete meal.
- Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning; add a pinch more lemon-pepper for extra zing if desired.