Lemon Garlic Green Beans (Printable)
Crisp-tender beans with garlic and fresh lemon for a bright, healthy side.
# Ingredient List:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
→ Aromatics
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
→ Seasonings
04 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Finishing
06 - Zest of 1 lemon
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
# Steps:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop the cooking. Drain again and set aside.
02 - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
03 - Add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté, stirring often, for 3–4 minutes until heated through and just starting to brown in spots.
04 - Remove from heat. Add lemon zest and lemon juice, tossing well to coat.
05 - Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The bright lemon wakes up everything on your plate without overpowering the main dish
- These beans have that perfect snap that makes you actually want to eat your vegetables
02 -
- The ice bath step is what keeps your beans bright green instead of turning that dull army color
- Garlic burns faster than you think, so watch closely and remove from heat as soon as it smells fragrant
03 -
- Trim the beans by snapping off the ends rather than cutting them for a more natural look
- Pat the blanched beans dry before sautéing so they sear instead of steam