Lemon Garlic Green Beans (Print Version)
Crisp green beans lightly sautéed with garlic and brightened by fresh lemon juice and zest.
# Recipe Ingredients:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
→ Aromatics
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
→ Seasoning
04 - 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
05 - 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Finish
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
07 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
→ Optional
08 - 2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)
# Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and blanch for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and immediately transfer to ice water to halt cooking. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
03 - Add blanched green beans to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, tossing frequently, until warmed through and tender-crisp.
04 - Remove skillet from heat. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest over green beans. Toss gently to combine.
05 - Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with toasted sliced almonds if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It transforms humble green beans into a zesty side that feels like a little secret shared between friends
- The perfect balance of garlic and lemon makes it a repeat favorite whenever I want something light yet satisfying
02 -
- Don’t skip the ice bath after blanching—it locks in that perfect texture and color every single time
- Adding lemon juice off the heat preserves its bright, fresh punch instead of cooking it off
03 -
- Using fresh lemon zest right before serving truly elevates the flavor beyond just lemon juice
- Gentle sautéing of garlic keeps it fragrant and stops it from turning bitter