Sauteed Green Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sautéed Green Beans are a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish that complements any main course. Crisp-tender and vibrant, these green beans are lightly cooked in olive oil or butter with garlic and seasonings for a simple yet delicious result. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday tables, or meal prep, they’re as versatile as they are tasty.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

fresh green beans (trimmed)olive oil or buttersaltblack peppergarlic (minced)optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, sliced almonds, or Parmesan cheese

directions

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.

Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and pat dry.

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add green beans and cook for 4–6 minutes, tossing occasionally, until tender-crisp and slightly caramelized.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Optional: top with lemon zest, red pepper flakes, almonds, or Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 18–20 minutes

Variations

Use sesame oil and soy sauce for an Asian twist.
Add crispy bacon bits or pancetta for richness.
Toss with balsamic glaze or Dijon mustard for tang.
Include shallots or onions for added depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Not recommended for freezing as texture may become mushy.

FAQs

Can I skip blanching?
Yes, but blanching helps retain color and texture before sautéing.

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, thaw and pat dry before sautéing to avoid excess moisture.

Are these spicy?
Only if you add red pepper flakes—otherwise, they’re mild.

Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, blanch in advance and sauté just before serving.

What can I serve with sautéed green beans?
They pair well with chicken, steak, fish, pasta, or holiday roasts.

How do I keep them crisp?
Avoid overcooking and serve immediately after sautéing.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic provides the best flavor.

Are sautéed green beans healthy?
Yes, they’re low in calories and rich in fiber and nutrients.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a large skillet or sauté in batches to avoid steaming.

What oil is best for sautéing?
Olive oil and butter both work well—use your preference.

Conclusion

Sautéed Green Beans are a fast, fresh, and flavorful side dish that’s easy to prepare and goes with almost any meal. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, they’re a staple that belongs in every home cook’s rotation.

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