Buttery Garlic Green Beans Recipe

Ingredients

Vegetables

The key to a great Buttery Garlic Green Beans recipe lies in the quality and combination of ingredients, particularly the selection of vegetables.

Green beans, also known as French beans or string beans, are the star of this dish. They’re a type of legume that’s low in calories and rich in nutrients, making them a great addition to any meal. Choose fresh green beans with their stems intact for the best results.

The other essential vegetable in this recipe is garlic. Not only does it add flavor to the dish, but it also has numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health. Use three to four cloves of garlic, depending on your personal preference, and make sure they’re minced or finely chopped for even cooking.

While not a vegetable per se, butter is an important component of this recipe. It adds a richness and creaminess that complements the green beans perfectly. Use unsalted butter for the best results, as it allows you to control the amount of salt in your dish.

In addition to these main ingredients, you may also want to consider adding some aromatics like chopped onions, sliced mushrooms, or minced ginger to enhance the flavor and texture of your green beans. These optional ingredients can add depth and complexity to your dish, making it even more enjoyable.

Finally, season your green beans with some salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavors. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor and freshness.

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

The key ingredient in this Buttery Garlic Green Beans Recipe is 1 pound of fresh green beans, trimmed.

To select the best green beans for this recipe, look for those that are firm and have a vibrant, emerald green color.

You can choose from various types of green beans, such as:

Snap peas
French beans
Haricot verts
Garden beans
Bush beans
Runner beans

Select the type that suits your taste preferences and adjust the recipe accordingly.

The most common culinary uses of green beans include:

Steaming or boiling as a side dish
Roasting in the oven for a crispy exterior and tender interior
Sauteing with garlic, lemon, and herbs for added flavor

In this recipe, we’ll focus on sautéing green beans with butter, garlic, salt, and pepper to create a savory and aromatic side dish.

Green beans are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and minerals like potassium and manganese. They are also low in calories and rich in antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your meal.

Garlic

Garlic is one of the most fundamental and flavorful ingredients used in cooking, particularly when combined with butter to create a rich and savory sauce for green beans. It adds depth and aroma to various dishes, from roasted meats to sauces and marinades.

The primary reason garlic is essential to this recipe is its ability to complement the sweetness of the green beans while enhancing their texture. When sautéed in butter until fragrant, the pungent flavor of garlic becomes milder and blends well with other ingredients.

When selecting garlic for cooking, look for firm bulbs with no signs of mold or sprouting. The best variety to use depends on personal taste, but common options include Elephant garlic, Soft Neck, and Silverskin.

The cloves within the bulb should be compact and free from any visible damage. Freshness is crucial when using garlic in cooking as it affects its flavor and aroma. Store whole bulbs at room temperature with the stem end facing upwards to prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to sprouting.

For this recipe, 3-4 cloves of garlic should be minced or crushed depending on personal preference. Using a microplane or fine grater allows for an even distribution of flavor while minimizing waste.

4 cloves of garlic, minced

In this recipe for Buttery Garlic Green Beans, one key ingredient stands out as a crucial component to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and aromas: garlic.

Garlic is a fundamental spice commonly used in many culinary traditions around the world, known for its distinctive flavor and fragrance. When it comes to cooking with garlic, it’s essential to understand how to use it effectively to bring out its full potential.

The recipe specifically calls for 4 cloves of garlic, which may seem like an excessive amount at first, but trust us – the pungency of garlic pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of green beans and the richness of butter. By mincing these 4 cloves finely, we can distribute their flavors evenly throughout the dish.

When working with garlic, it’s worth noting that the type you choose can make a difference in flavor. Some common types include:

White, which is relatively mild and has a soft texture
Silverskin, known for its milder taste and firmer texture compared to white garlic
Elephant, having the strongest flavor and thickest skin among the three types mentioned
Softneck, a popular variety offering a rich, full-bodied flavor and soft necks that make them easy to peel
Hardneck, exhibiting strong growth with solid internal structures and producing robust-tasting garlic bulbs

For the purpose of this recipe, using elephant or softneck would be ideal options as their flavors complement green beans without overpowering them.

To mince your chosen type of garlic correctly:

Peel the cloves and separate each one for even distribution in your recipe.
Gently chop the peeled cloves using a chef’s knife until you achieve finely minced texture. Be cautious not to crush or tear the garlic pieces, which will release their strong flavors prematurely and cause an unpleasant odor.

Keep in mind that if you’re using hardneck, peel only when fully separated from each other for easy handling and minimize any accidental tearing that could lead to bitter taste.

Cooking the Green Beans

Steaming the Green Beans

To cook the green beans for this Buttery Garlic Green Beans Recipe, you will first need to select a suitable cooking method. Steaming is an excellent option as it helps preserve the natural flavors and nutrients of the green beans. Here’s how to steam them.

Start by filling a large saucepan with about 2-3 inches of water. You can also use a steamer basket if you have one, as it will allow the green beans to cook evenly and prevent them from getting soggy. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and place the steamer basket or a metal colander into the saucepan. Add 1-2 pounds of fresh green beans to the steamer, making sure they’re not overcrowded.

Cover the saucepan with a lid to trap the steam and cook the green beans for 4-6 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness. You can check on them by gently removing the lid and peeking inside.

While the green beans are steaming, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce according to the recipe. Once the green beans are cooked, remove them from the heat and carefully place them in a serving dish or back into the pot with the garlic butter sauce.

Let the green beans sit for about 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb some of the flavorful sauce. You can also add some chopped nuts or grated cheese on top for extra flavor and texture, if desired.

Bring a pot of water to boil.

To cook the green beans, begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

Add 2-3 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the boiling water and swirl it around to create a gentle whirlpool effect in the water.

This will help to evenly coat the green beans with the butter as they cook. If you’re using a steamer basket, place it into the pot at this time, making sure not to splash any of the boiling water onto your hands or nearby surfaces.

Once the butter has melted and the water is churning, carefully add in 1-2 cups of fresh green beans, depending on their size and the number of servings you’re aiming for. Be cautious when adding the beans, as they can splash a bit in the boiling water.

If using a steamer basket, place it over the pot, ensuring the green beans are above the boiling water but not touching it. You can also use a metal or silicone steamer insert to make this process easier and safer.

Continue cooking the green beans for 4-6 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness. If using a basket or insert, check on them periodically by lifting the lid to peek at their progress without letting any steam escape.

When the green beans are tender yet still crisp, use tongs or a slotted spoon to carefully remove them from the boiling water and transfer them to a serving dish or individual plates. Serve immediately with your preferred amount of garlic butter sauce drizzled on top.

Add green beans to steamer basket and steam for 57 minutes or until tender.

Cooking green beans to perfection can be achieved through steaming, which helps retain their nutrients and texture.
To begin, you will need a pot with a steamer basket that fits inside it. Fill the pot with 2-3 inches of water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer. This will help prevent the water from boiling over while you steam the green beans.
Add the green beans to the steamer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. You can cook them in batches if necessary.

Steaming Time

Cooking time may vary depending on your personal preference for tenderness and crunchiness. For a tender but still crisp texture, steam the green beans for 5-7 minutes or until they are slightly tender.
For an even softer texture, you can continue steaming the green beans for additional 10-15 minutes or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

However, if you’re looking to achieve the perfectly cooked green beans as described in this recipe, steam them for 57 minutes or until tender.

Tips and Precautions

To ensure that your green beans are not overcooked, check on them periodically during steaming. You can remove them from the heat source if you notice they’re becoming too soft or mushy.
Be careful when handling hot steam and cooked vegetables to avoid burns.

In summary, cooking green beans through steaming is a simple yet effective method for achieving perfectly cooked vegetables. By following these steps and tips, you can create delicious and tender green beans that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Preparing the Garlic Butter Mixture

To cook the green beans to perfection and prepare a delicious garlic butter mixture, follow these steps:

Ingredients needed for the recipe include:

1 pound of fresh or frozen green beans
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Cooking the Green Beans:

First, rinse the green beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
If using fresh green beans, trim the ends and cut them into 2-inch pieces. If using frozen green beans, thaw them according to package instructions.
Place a steamer basket over boiling water, making sure that the bottom of the basket is not touching the water.
Arrange the green beans in the steamer basket and cover it with a lid.
Cook for 4-6 minutes or until the green beans are tender but still crisp. You can also blanch them in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes if you prefer.

Preparing the Garlic Butter Mixture:

In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can impart a bitter flavor to the dish.
Remove from heat once fragrant.
Mix in salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
To assemble the dish, combine the cooked green beans with the prepared garlic butter mixture and serve immediately. You can also refrigerate or freeze the garlic butter mixture for later use.
This Buttery Garlic Green Beans recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of an elegant vegetarian meal.

Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.

To begin cooking the Green Beans recipe that involves a delicious and savory buttery garlic flavor, first ensure you have all the necessary ingredients at hand. These include green beans of your choice, preferably fresh and crisp, two cloves of garlic minced, salt to taste, black pepper for added depth, and two tablespoons of unsalted butter. It’s also beneficial to have some white vinegar or lemon juice on hand as a garnish.

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. This process requires patience but is essential for achieving that golden-brown color and rich aroma associated with good cooking. You might need to stir occasionally to prevent burning, especially if you’re using high-quality or cold-pressed butter as it tends to have a lower melting point.

While waiting for the butter to melt, prepare your garlic by mincing it finely. This is crucial in distributing the flavor evenly throughout the dish without any overpowering notes. You can use more or less garlic depending on your personal preference but starting with two cloves gives you a good balance between flavor and subtlety.

Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic to the saucepan and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can quickly become overpowering. Stir occasionally to prevent this from happening.

Next, add your green beans to the saucepan with the melted butter and garlic mixture. You can use either frozen or fresh green beans; if using fresh, ensure they’re trimmed of any stems before adding them to the pan. If using frozen, follow the package instructions for thawing first but pat them dry with a paper towel after thawing to remove excess moisture.

Season your green beans with salt and black pepper according to taste, ensuring that every strand is coated well without overdoing it. Stir occasionally while allowing the mixture to simmer under medium heat until the green beans are cooked through but retain their crunchiness. The exact time will vary depending on whether you’re using fresh or frozen green beans.

Once your Green Beans recipe with buttery garlic flavor has reached the desired level of doneness, remove from the heat and let cool slightly. Transfer the green beans to a serving dish, garnishing with a squeeze of white vinegar or lemon juice if preferred for an added zing. Serve immediately while still warm for best results.

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

To start cooking the green beans, begin by trimming both ends off of each bean, making sure they are all roughly the same length to ensure even cooking.

Cut any larger beans in half or quarters to facilitate uniform cooking and reduce the risk of them being too crunchy when cooked.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat on your stovetop. You can use a non-stick pan for this recipe if you have one as it will prevent the green beans from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Add two tablespoons of butter to the preheated skillet. Once the butter has melted, add one teaspoon of salt to season the green beans before they’re cooked. Be cautious not to over-salt them at this stage because you can always add more salt later but it’s difficult to remove excess salt from your dish.

Once the skillet is hot and coated in butter and salt, add the trimmed green beans in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the green beans in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.

Cook the green beans for three to five minutes on each side or until they’re tender but still crisp, flipping them occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. You want the green beans to retain their crunch so if you prefer them less cooked, cook them for a shorter time and vice versa.

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The garlic should infuse into the green beans as it cooks, giving them an added layer of flavor. You can use one or two cloves of garlic depending on your preference for garlic intensity in this dish.

Assembling and Serving

Tossing the Green Beans with Garlic Butter

To assemble and serve the Buttery Garlic Green Beans, start by placing a portion of cooked green beans on a serving plate or into a decorative bowl.
Garnish with additional sliced garlic, if desired, for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the green beans in a zigzag pattern, allowing each bean to be coated evenly.
The aroma of the melted butter and sautéed garlic will infuse into the air, enticing everyone to take a bite.
This dish is perfect as a side for any occasion: holiday feasts, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners.
You can also add other ingredients to customize the recipe to your taste. Some ideas include:
Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the green beans.
Crispy chopped bacon bits or diced ham provide a satisfying texture contrast and savory depth.
A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick for those who like a little heat.

Pour garlic butter mixture over steamed green beans in a serving dish.

To assemble and serve this delicious Buttery Garlic Green Beans Recipe, follow these steps:
Prepare a serving dish by washing it with soap and water, then drying it thoroughly to prevent any moisture from affecting the presentation of your dish.
Gather all the ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe, including the steamed green beans, garlic butter mixture, salt, and pepper.
Steam the green beans according to package instructions or until they are tender but still crisp. Drain any excess water from the green beans to prevent them from becoming soggy in the serving dish.
In a separate bowl, mix together the garlic butter mixture, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will help to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the dish.
Pour the garlic butter mixture over the steamed green beans in the serving dish. You can use a spatula or spoon to gently pour the mixture over the top of the green beans, making sure not to spill any on the sides of the dish.
Serve immediately and garnish with additional parsley or chopped herbs if desired. This will add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
If you’re planning ahead, consider reheating the green beans in the microwave or oven before serving. Simply reheat them according to package instructions or until they’re hot and steamy.

Tips for Presentation:

Use a decorative serving dish to add visual appeal to your plate.
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, on top of the green beans for extra color and flavor.
Consider using a sauceboat or gravy boat to serve the garlic butter mixture on the side. This will allow guests to help themselves to the flavorful sauce.
Garnish with lemon wedges or sliced lemons on the side of the plate for an added burst of citrus flavor.

Variations and Substitutions:

To add some heat to your dish, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top of the green beans before serving.
Substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic if you don’t have any on hand. Simply mix it in according to package instructions.
Consider using different types of green beans, such as French-style or snow peas, for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information:

Per serving (approximate):

Calories: 120
Fat: 8g
Saturated fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g

Serving Suggestions

To assemble this delicious dish, start by gathering all the ingredients and tools needed for preparation. The basic components include fresh green beans, garlic cloves, unsalted butter, salt, and black pepper.

For this recipe, it’s essential to choose high-quality green beans that are crisp and firm. You can either use frozen or fresh green beans, depending on what is readily available in your area. If using frozen beans, make sure to thaw them according to the package instructions before proceeding with the recipe.

Next, peel three to four cloves of garlic, depending on your personal taste for the pungency level you prefer. You can use a garlic press or chop the garlic using a knife if that’s more convenient for you.

Now it’s time to melt the unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat. While waiting for the butter to melt, prepare a large skillet or sauté pan with enough space to hold all the green beans in a single layer. Once the butter is melted and starts to foam, add the garlic cloves and cook for about 1-2 minutes until they’re lightly golden brown.

After the garlic is fragrant and slightly caramelized, add the green beans to the skillet or sauté pan with the garlic-butter mixture. Stir the beans gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the butter-garlic sauce, taking care not to break any of the beans in the process.

Allow the green beans to cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into one of the larger ends of a bean. If it slides in easily without resistance, then the beans are cooked through. If not, continue cooking them for another minute and checking again.

Once the green beans are tender, remove them from heat immediately to prevent overcooking and serving them while still slightly crispy and retaining their vibrant green color. You can serve the buttery garlic green beans hot as a side dish alongside your favorite meals or enjoy them on their own as a snack or light meal.

Serving suggestions for this delightful dish include pairing it with roasted meats like chicken or beef, steamed vegetables, or serving it as part of a salad or pasta course. You can also top the green beans with some grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley leaves for an added burst of flavor and texture. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy this buttery garlic green bean recipe.

Serve hot as a side dish for chicken, beef, or pork main courses.

To assemble and serve this delicious side dish, follow these steps:

Select a suitable main course to pair with the buttery garlic green beans, such as grilled chicken, roasted beef, or pan-seared pork.

Prepare the main course according to your preferred recipe and cooking method. Ensure that it is cooked through and ready for serving.

In a separate pan, melt 2-3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic (about 1-2 cloves) and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Add fresh green beans (about 1 pound) to the pan with the garlic and butter mixture. Toss the green beans in the buttery garlic sauce to coat them evenly.

Continue cooking the green beans for about 5-7 minutes or until they are tender but still crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices (such as lemon zest or red pepper flakes).

To serve, place the main course on a plate or platter and arrange the buttery garlic green beans alongside it. You can also garnish the dish with additional green beans, sliced lemons, or chopped fresh herbs for added color and visual appeal.

Here’s a summary of the steps in a numbered list:

Select a suitable main course (chicken, beef, or pork).
Prepare the main course according to your preferred recipe.
Melt butter and sauté garlic over medium heat.
Add green beans to the pan and toss in the buttery garlic sauce.
Season with salt, pepper, and desired herbs or spices.
Serve hot alongside the main course.

Some popular ways to serve this side dish include:

As a simple accompaniment to grilled chicken breasts or pork chops.
Alongside roasted beef or lamb dishes, such as prime rib or rack of lamb.
As a healthy and flavorful side dish for vegetarian main courses, such as stuffed portobellos or eggplant parmesan.

This recipe makes about 4 servings, but it can easily be doubled or tripled to feed larger crowds. The best part? It’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it a quick and easy side dish for busy weeknights or special occasions!

Author
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Percival Langley

Gourmet Expert at myfab5.com

Percival Langley, the creative force behind this site, holds the unique and delectable title of Gourmet Expert. With a passion for elevating the culinary experiences of our furry companions, Percival shares delightful and nutritious recipes that go beyond the ordinary. His site is a go-to resource for pet owners seeking to pamper their pets with gourmet treats and meals. Percival's expertise in crafting delicious and health-conscious pet cuisine is evident in the tasteful and innovative content he curates. For those who believe in treating their pets to a culinary adventure, Percival Langley's site is a flavorful journey into the world of gourmet pet delights.

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