Green Bean Recipe
A quick and vibrant side dish, this green bean recipe is healthy, vegetarian, and ready in under 20 minutes. It brings color, crunch, and a burst of citrus to your plate.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans ends trimmed
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds toasted
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan freshly grated
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add green beans and cook 2–3 minutes until bright emerald. Drain and plunge into an ice bath—this keeps them crisp and colorful.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Shake off excess water from beans, then add to the skillet. Toss gently for 3–4 minutes until edges show a light char but beans stay crisp.
- Remove from heat, then stir in lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go.
- Fold in toasted almonds and Parmesan just before serving. Transfer to a bowl and garnish with a lemon wedge or extra zest—serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled for a refreshing twist.
Notes
Pat beans completely dry after blanching to prevent oil splatter. If garlic browns too fast, reduce heat. Swap lemon for lime for a citrusy twist, or try orange zest in winter. Experiment with fresh herbs—thyme or tarragon play nicely here. Undercook by 30 seconds if you love extra crunch.
Love this recipe?Follow us at @Recipecs for more