Why Make This Recipe
Garlicky Green Beans are the perfect side dish for almost any meal. Seriously, they’re so good you might want to make them the star of your dinner table! These beans bring together the crispness of fresh green beans and the bold flavor of garlic, making each bite pop. Plus, they come together in a snap. If you want to impress your friends or family (or yourself!), this dish is a must!
How to Make Garlicky Green Beans
Cooking Garlicky Green Beans is as easy as pie—actually, easier! You’ll be sautéing, garlicking, and mixing in a matter of minutes. Here’s what you’ll be doing:
Sautéing Beans: Get your olive oil sizzling and toss in those green beans. Cook them until they’re just right—charred on the outside, yet still crunchy.
Cooking Garlic: Add that crushed garlic (don’t skimp!) and let it mingle with chilli flakes. The smell will be heavenly; you’ll likely to have everyone asking what you’re cooking.
Finish Up: Combine the beans back in, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and that’s it. Done! 🍽️
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1.3 pounds fresh green beans (trimmed)
- 6 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Directions:
Sautéing Beans:
- Pour the olive oil into a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Once the pan is hot, add the green beans and cook for about 3-5 minutes until they’re partially cooked and a little charred.
- Make sure they still have a slight crispness—nobody likes soggy beans! Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan, leaving most of that delicious olive oil.
Cooking Garlic:
- Into the same pan, throw in the garlic and a pinch of chilli flakes, stirring constantly over medium-low heat until you get that amazing garlicky aroma (about 3 minutes).
- Lower the heat, add the water, and let it simmer for 8 minutes until the water evaporates and the garlic gets all soft and sweet.
Finish:
- Toss the beans back into the pan and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Mix it all up, and serve hot. What could be simpler?
How to Serve Garlicky Green Beans
These green beans shine as a side dish next to anything from roasted chicken to a big ol’ steak. Want to make it a vegan option? Pair them with quinoa or a hearty salad. Drizzle some extra olive oil or a squeeze of lemon on top to elevate them even more. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts for a little crunch if you’re feeling fancy. 😋
How to Store Garlicky Green Beans
If you somehow have leftovers (and that’s a big “if”), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a skillet or microwave until they’re warmed through. They might lose that initial crisp, but they’ll still taste fantastic!
Tips to Make Garlicky Green Beans
- Don’t rush the sautéing—we want them crispy, not mushy!
- Use fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture; frozen just doesn’t cut it!
- Adjust the garlic to your taste. More garlic? Yes, please!
- Want a spicy kick? Add extra chilli flakes to really heat things up. 🔥
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for something cheesy and delightful. You can also swap out green beans for other veggies like asparagus or broccoli. The world is your oyster—or, well, your veggie platter!
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans?
You can, but fresh green beans offer the best crunch and flavor. If you do go frozen, make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly first.How can I make this dish vegan?
The recipe is already vegan! Just be sure to serve it with plant-based mains, and you’re good to go!What if I don’t have olive oil?
You can substitute with other oils like avocado or canola oil, but olive oil adds a wonderful flavor that makes this dish special.
Now you’re all set to whip up some Garlicky Green Beans! Trust me, you won’t regret it – your taste buds will be thanking you! 🥳
Garlicky Green Beans
Ingredients
Method
- Pour the olive oil into a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Once the pan is hot, add the green beans and cook for about 3-5 minutes until they’re partially cooked and a little charred.
- Make sure they still have a slight crispness—nobody likes soggy beans! Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan, leaving most of that delicious olive oil.
- Into the same pan, throw in the garlic and a pinch of chilli flakes, stirring constantly over medium-low heat until you get that amazing garlicky aroma (about 3 minutes).
- Lower the heat, add the water, and let it simmer for 8 minutes until the water evaporates and the garlic gets all soft and sweet.
- Toss the beans back into the pan and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Mix it all up, and serve hot.