Garlic Butter Green Beans

Name: Garlic Butter Green Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love how quick and easy it is to make Garlic Butter Green Beans. This dish is not only vibrant and appealing but also delivers a punch of flavor that elevates any meal. Just a handful of ingredients transform fresh green beans into a buttery, garlicky treat that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or steak. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a sure winner. Plus, it takes just a few minutes to whip up!

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:44:35.802Z

When I first tried making Garlic Butter Green Beans, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. The combination of fresh green beans sautéed in rich garlic butter created an irresistible flavor that I couldn’t get enough of! I’ve found that using fresh beans rather than frozen makes a noticeable difference in texture and taste.

One of my favorite tips is to not overcrowd the pan while cooking. This ensures that the beans get that lovely sear and remain tender-crisp instead of becoming mushy. Trust me, this small step makes all the difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
Vibrant, fresh flavor that complements any main dish
Buttery and garlicky—a flavor combination that never disappoints

Ingredient Insights

The star of this dish is undeniably the fresh green beans. When selecting them, look for beans that are bright green, firm, and crisp. Avoid any that appear wrinkled or have brown spots. Ideally, you want to prepare this dish with green beans that are in season, which will enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Another key player in this recipe is the unsalted butter. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish, which is essential when seasoning your green beans to taste. If you're in a pinch or looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute can work well without sacrificing the buttery flavor.

Timing and Technique

When blanching the green beans, it's crucial to keep a close eye on the timing. Aim for just 3-4 minutes to achieve that beautiful, vibrant green color while maintaining a tender-crisp texture. If you go beyond this time, the beans may become mushy and lose their appealing snap.

The sautéing step is equally important. After melting the butter and adding the garlic, keep the heat at medium to avoid burning. You should notice a fragrant aroma within 30 seconds, signaling that it’s time to add the green beans. Stirring frequently helps ensure even coating without letting the garlic brown too much, which can make it bitter.

Ingredients

To prepare these Garlic Butter Green Beans, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Garlic Butter Green Beans:

Cook the Green Beans

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Sauté with Garlic Butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Combine and Serve

Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, drizzle with lemon juice before serving.

Enjoy your Garlic Butter Green Beans as a delightful side dish!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted almonds or sesame seeds before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Green Beans are not just a side dish; they can elevate any meal. I love serving them alongside grilled chicken, steak, or even a robust tofu dish for a vegetarian option. Their vibrant color adds a touch of elegance, making them perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings.

For an added burst of flavor, consider garnishing with toasted almonds or sliced lemon zest right before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also complements the garlic and butter beautifully, creating a more complex taste experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Garlic Butter Green Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, to maintain their crispness, I recommend eating them fresh. If reheating is necessary, do so on low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent them from becoming overly soft.

Freezing green beans after cooking can alter their texture, but if you’d like to prepare ahead, consider blanching the beans without sautéing them in garlic butter first. Freeze them flat in ziplock bags for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply sauté from frozen with garlic butter for a quick side!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but fresh ones will provide better texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add more spices or herbs?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

→ What main dishes pair well with Garlic Butter Green Beans?

They pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or even pasta dishes.