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 green beans, trimmed; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely adore Garlic Butter Green Beans! The crispy green beans perfectly sautéed in rich garlic butter create a delightful side dish. We often serve this at family gatherings or festive dinners, and they always steal the show. The combination of savory garlic and the buttery finish makes these green beans irresistible. Plus, they come together in just minutes, making them a quick go-to recipe even on busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:57:36.164Z

When I first decided to make Garlic Butter Green Beans, I was focusing on creating a side dish that was both simple and flavorful. By using fresh green beans and quality butter, I discovered how deeply satisfying the flavors could be. It’s remarkable how a few ingredients can produce such a rich taste!

Over time, I've experimented with different spices and added components, but consistently returning to the classic garlic and butter keeps things uncomplicated yet delicious. I found that adding a squeeze of lemon at the end brightens everything up beautifully, so don't skip that step!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Simplicity in preparation without sacrificing flavor
Garlic butter elevates the dish to gourmet status
Crispy green beans that retain their vibrant color

Preparing the Green Beans

When working with green beans, freshness is key. Look for beans that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch. Trim the ends before blanching—this not only enhances presentation but also ensures uniform cooking. A simple snap breaks off the tip, ensuring no bitterness remains. The blanching step is crucial; it not only brightens the color of the beans but also helps maintain their crisp texture. Aim for a bright green hue after boiling, which should take about three minutes.

After blanching, transferring the green beans to an ice bath is essential. This method halts the cooking process and locks in that vibrant green color. Leave them in the ice bath for about five minutes, ensuring they cool completely. If you skip this step, the beans may become limp and lose their appealing crunch. For optimal results, prepare your ice bath in advance—using a large bowl filled with ice water ensures you’re ready to go when the timer is up.

Sautéing Techniques

The sautéing step is where the magic happens. Use a wide skillet to give the green beans enough room to toss and cook evenly. Medium heat is ideal to prevent the garlic from burning; you want it to be fragrant but not browned. Stirring constantly for about a minute ensures the garlic infuses into the butter without overcooking. If you notice the butter beginning to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to minimize any risk of bitterness.

For those wanting to elevate the dish further, consider adding red pepper flakes while sautéing for a subtle kick. The heat from the peppers complements the garlic and butter without overpowering the delicate flavor of the green beans. Alternatively, for a nutty twist, add a handful of toasted almonds in the final minute of cooking, which complements the garlic butter beautifully.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound green beans, trimmed
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Instructions

Blanch the Green Beans

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the trimmed green beans. Blanch for about 3 minutes until they turn bright green, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Sauté in Garlic Butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Drain the green beans from the ice bath, then add them to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, drizzle with lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a handful of toasted almonds for crunch.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, avoid the microwave as it can make the green beans mushy. Instead, gently sauté them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until they’re warmed through, allowing the garlic butter to recoat them. This way, they retain their crispy texture and rich flavor.

For longer storage, you can freeze blanched green beans. Slice them first, then blanch, cool, and pack them in freezer bags. They can last up to six months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use them, directly sauté from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These Garlic Butter Green Beans are versatile and can shine on any table. They pair exceptionally well with roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, adding a vibrant color and rich flavor that balances heartier dishes. For vegetarian options, serve alongside quinoa or a grain salad to create a wholesome meal.

To make the dish even more visually appealing, consider garnishing with thinly sliced lemon zest or toasted sesame seeds before serving. This not only boosts the aesthetic but also adds varied textures and flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience. Enjoy this dish warm for the best taste, but they can also be served at room temperature for picnics or potlucks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but fresh green beans yield better texture and flavor.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Use olive oil instead of butter for a vegan option.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

These green beans pair well with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled fish.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can blanch the beans in advance and sauté them just before serving.