Side Dishes > Legume Sides > Beans (Side) > Green Beans with Garlic and Oil Recipe

Simple Garlic Green Beans

A quick and flavorful side dish featuring fresh green beans sautéed with garlic and olive oil. This recipe is simple, healthy, and perfect for any occasion. Ready in under 20 minutes!

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Fresh Green Beans
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (optional)

Preparing the Green Beans

Begin by washing the green beans thoroughly. Trim the ends by snapping or cutting them off. If the beans are particularly long, you can cut them in half for easier eating.

Preparing the Garlic

Peel the garlic cloves and mince them finely. Mincing the garlic ensures that its flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Sautéing the Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.

Cooking the Green Beans

Add the green beans to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss the green beans to coat them evenly with the oil and seasonings.

Steam and Sauté

Cook the green beans for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. You can add a tablespoon of water to the skillet and cover it for a few minutes to help steam the green beans if needed. This helps them cook more quickly and evenly.

Finishing Touches

Remove the skillet from the heat. If desired, drizzle the green beans with lemon juice for a touch of brightness. Toss to combine.

Serving

Serve the garlic green beans immediately as a side dish. They pair well with grilled chicken, fish, steak, or tofu.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 2g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

This recipe is naturally low in sodium. Adjust salt to taste. Adding nuts or seeds can increase the healthy fat content.

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FAQ

  • Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

    Yes, you can use frozen green beans. However, they may release more water during cooking, so you might need to cook them for a slightly longer time and ensure the water evaporates before serving.
  • How can I store leftover garlic green beans?

    Store leftover garlic green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
  • Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

    Yes, you can add other vegetables such as sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions. Add them to the skillet along with the green beans and cook until tender.