Green beans are a versatile side dish enjoyed worldwide, often featured in both everyday meals and festive occasions. Sautéed green beans offer a delightful blend of crispness and flavor, accentuated with simple seasonings that enhance their natural taste. This dish is popular because it’s quick to prepare, nutritious, and pairs well with a wide range of main courses, making it a staple in many households.
Servings: Serves 4 people
Appliances/Utensils:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Wash and trim the green beans using a sharp knife on a cutting board.
2. Heat the large frying pan over medium heat and add olive oil.
3. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the green beans to the pan, and use the kitchen tongs to toss them in the garlic and oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and continue to sauté the beans for 5-7 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
6. Add the lemon zest and juice to the pan, and toss to combine.
7. If using, sprinkle slivered almonds over the beans and give them one final toss with the wooden spoon and spatula.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- To make this dish nut-free, simply omit the slivered almonds.
- For added flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar during the final minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the sautéed green beans as a side dish with grilled chicken, roasted beef, or a vegetarian main like tofu stir-fry.
Estimated Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes