Savory Garlic Green Beans

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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These Savory Garlic Green Beans are a perfect side dish that adds a fresh, vibrant touch to any meal. Quick to prepare, they bring a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients for Savory Garlic Green Beans

Fresh green beans are the star of this dish, offering a crisp texture and vibrant color. Olive oil provides a smooth base for sautéing, enhancing the flavor of the beans. Garlic adds an aromatic depth and savory kick, while lemon zest brings a refreshing brightness. Sliced almonds, once toasted, contribute a nutty crunch. Finally, parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • To toast almonds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
  • If you don't have a lemon zester, use a fine grater or the small side of a box grater.
  • For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

Serving Suggestions

These green beans pair beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled salmon. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or farro. They're also a delightful addition to any holiday spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them first and reduce the blanching time, as they are partially cooked already.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain their texture.

Savory Garlic Green Beans Recipe Walkthrough

Start by blanching your green beans. Bring a pot of water to a boil, toss in the beans, and let them cook for just 3 minutes. This quick blanching keeps them crisp and vibrant. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath — this stops the cooking process and locks in that bright green color.

Next, heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and give it a quick sauté, about a minute or until it's fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

Drain the beans from the ice bath and add them to the skillet. Season with some salt and pepper, tossing them to coat thoroughly with the garlicky oil. This step ensures every bean is packed with flavor.

Sprinkle the lemon zest over the beans, stirring them well to distribute the citrusy aroma evenly. Once everything is well mixed, transfer the beans to a serving dish.

Finally, top the beans with toasted almonds and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving. The almonds add a delightful crunch, while the parsley offers a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy preparation — ready in under 15 minutes.
  • Perfect balance of garlic and lemon zest for a fresh, savory flavor.
  • Lightly toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch.
  • Healthy and versatile, fitting into any meal.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the green beans to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle lemon zest over the beans and stir well.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with toasted almonds and fresh parsley before serving.

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