Easy Garlic Green Beans

Name: Easy Garlic Green Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 450 grams fresh green beans (trimmed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

20 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Quick and delicious garlic green beans, perfect as a side dish.

Prep

10 min

Cook

10 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Green beans are a staple side dish, beloved for their versatility and ease of preparation. This recipe elevates the humble green bean with a garlicky twist, making it a favourite for those who crave a quick yet flavourful accompaniment to their main course. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts, our easy garlic green beans are not only simple to make but also pack a punch of flavour. The secret to this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing the fresh ingredients to shine, and appealing to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Instructions

Prepare the beans

Trim the ends of the green beans and rinse them under cold water.

Pro tip: Ensure all beans are similar in length for even cooking.

Blanch the beans

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

Pro tip: Blanching helps preserve the beans' colour and texture.

Drain and cool

Drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

Pro tip: This step ensures the beans remain crisp.

Heat the oil

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

Pro tip: Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.

Sauté the garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Cook the beans

Add the green beans to the skillet, toss with garlic, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Pro tip: Toss frequently to evenly coat the beans with garlic and oil.

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Tips & Tricks

Trim the ends of the beans for a uniform look.
Blanching helps retain vibrant colour.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make easy garlic green beans?

Simply blanch fresh green beans, then sauté with garlic in olive oil for a quick side dish.

How long do you blanch green beans?

Blanch green beans for about 3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.

Can you make garlic green beans ahead of time?

Yes, you can blanch the beans ahead, store them, and sauté with garlic just before serving.

What can I serve with garlic green beans?

Garlic green beans pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or as part of a vegetarian meal.

How to store leftover garlic green beans?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these easy garlic green beans alongside roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or even as part of a vegetarian spread. They pair well with a variety of main dishes, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to your meal. To make ahead, blanch the beans and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, quickly sauté with garlic. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.