Ever had green beans so addictive they should come with a warning?
Get ready to experience Garlicky Green Beans, a quick and flavorful dish that promises to liven up any meal. With their vibrant green color and irresistible garlic aroma, these beans are not just a side – they’re a showstopper! Easy to whip up and packed with flavor, they’ll make you reconsider what a veggie side dish can be. Seriously, who knew green beans could be this good?
Why make this recipe
Here are a few reasons to love these Garlicky Green Beans:
- It’s all in one pan: Less fuss and less cleanup? Count me in!
- Affordable and healthy: Fresh ingredients without breaking the bank, these beans stay on the good-for-you list.
- Family-friendly: If your kids turn up their noses at veggies, just wait until they get a whiff of this dish. A crunchy, garlicky surprise awaits them!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 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
Ready to make edible magic? Let’s dive into the steps:
Sautéing Beans: Pour the olive oil into a large saucepan set over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the beans and cook until partially cooked through and slightly charred on the outside, about 3-5 minutes. Make sure they still have a slight crispness! Using a slotted spoon, remove the beans from the pan, leaving most of the oil behind.
Cooking Garlic: Add the garlic (and if you like a kick, some chili flakes) to the oil and sauté over medium-low heat until the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes. Then, crank the heat down to low and add the water. Let it simmer for 8 minutes, or until the water evaporates and the garlic turns soft and sweet.
Finish Up: Toss the beans back into the pan, season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until well combined. Serve hot and enjoy your garlicky creation!
How to make Garlicky Green Beans (Overview)
Making these green beans is a breeze, I promise! Here’s how it goes down:
- Step 1: Heat up some olive oil and sauté the green beans till they’re crisp yet tender.
- Step 2: Get that garlic cooking. Don’t rush it; letting it caramelize is key!
- Step 3: Mix and mingle everything together before serving.
Quick Pro Tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! The rich aroma and flavor bring the dish to life.
How to serve Garlicky Green Beans
These green beans are a feast for the senses: bright green, crunchy, and bursting with garlic goodness. Serve them alongside:
- Grilled chicken: The juicy meat complements the beans perfectly.
- Steak or fish: The garlicky flavors enhance any protein.
- Pasta: Toss them in with a little olive oil and cheese for a simple yet gourmet vibe.
You’ll have the aroma filling the room and everyone reaching for seconds. What could be better? 😋
How to store Garlicky Green Beans
Leftovers? No problem!
- Fridge: Keep them in an airtight container for about 3-4 days.
- Freezer: They can last up to 2-3 months, although they’re best fresh.
When reheating, just give them a quick zap in the microwave or heat them in a pan, adding a touch of olive oil to revive that garlicky goodness.
Tips to make Garlicky Green Beans
Want to elevate your green bean game? Try these insider tricks:
- Timing: Sauté your beans until just tender for the perfect crunch — nobody wants mushy beans!
- Ingredient swaps: Feel free to use butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.
- Add a twist: Throw in a splash of soy sauce for an Asian flair, or lemon zest for a fresh zing.
Variation
Want to mix things up? Here are a few easy ideas:
- Add heat: A dash of red pepper flakes will spice things up if you love some heat!
- Vegan twist: Replace olive oil with coconut oil for a fun flavor change.
- Cheesy delight: Top with some grated parmesan cheese for a rich finish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Absolutely! Just sauté them a little longer until heated and tender.
2. How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlicky dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just cook your beans, toss them in, and serve.
3. Can I freeze leftover green beans?
Yes! Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last a few months!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Garlicky Green Beans
Ingredients
Method
- Pour the olive oil into a large saucepan set over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the beans and cook until partially cooked through and slightly charred on the outside, about 3-5 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the beans from the pan, leaving most of the oil behind.
- Add the garlic to the oil and sauté over medium-low heat until the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, add the water, and let it simmer for 8 minutes, or until the water evaporates and the garlic turns soft and sweet.
- Toss the beans back into the pan, season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until well combined.
- Serve hot and enjoy your garlicky creation!