Garlicky Lemon Green Beans
These crisp-tender lemon green beans are blanched and then quickly sautéed with minced garlic and fresh lemon zest for an easy vegetable side.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 133kcal
Ingredients
- 2 pounds green beans , washed and trimmed if needed
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1-2 lemons
- salt and pepper
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan , optional, to finish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and have a bowl of ice water ready. Add the 2 pounds green beans the pot and cook them for 2-3 minutes. Then immediately place them in the bowl of ice water.
- In a large sauce pan or cast iron pan on the stove, heat the 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the 3 cloves garlic and cook over low heat for 1 minute. Use a slotted spoon (or use a colander to drain) to add the blanched green beans to the pan and cook for 2-5 minutes until they reach your desired texture. I like mine to be more crisp than soft.
- Zest the 1-2 lemons and stir into the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in ¼ cup shredded parmesan if using, and cook over low heat until the cheese slightly melts. Serve hot or at room temperature.
Notes
- What texture to cook the green beans depends on your preference. I personally like green beans that retain a bit of crispness - not soft/soggy - so I blanch them briefly and just cook them for a few more minutes on the stove. However, you can cook them longer if you like them softer.
- Can I use frozen green beans? I haven't made this recipe using frozen green beans, and because it's such a light and fresh dish I prefer to make them with fresh beans for the best flavor. However, I do think you could use frozen green beans in a pinch. Don't blanch them first, just add them right to the pan.
- Make ahead: You can blanch the green beans up to a day in advance. Place them in an airtight storage container and keep them in the fridge until ready to use.
- How to store: Transfer any leftover green beans to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave.
Nutrition
Calories: 133kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 77mg | Potassium: 354mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1080IU | Vitamin C: 28mg | Calcium: 113mg | Iron: 2mg