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Easy Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans - Quick Side Dish

These sautéed green beans are the perfect quick and elegant side dish. In just minutes, you’ll achieve crisp-tender green beans with a garlicky, buttery flavor that elevates any meal. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines nutrition, flavor, and simplicity into one flawless dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 132
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 24 oz fresh green beans – ends trimmed haricots verts for thinner beans
  • 3 Tbsp salted butter or olive oil for a lighter option
  • 3 garlic cloves – minced
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Substitutions & Variations: Use olive oil instead of butter add lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or rosemary for extra flavor. For a Mediterranean twist, add sun-dried tomatoes or anchovy paste.

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Rinse, dry, and trim the ends. Pat dry thoroughly to ensure proper sautéing.
  2. Blanch the Beans: In a large pan, add 1 inch of water and bring to a boil. Blanch beans for 5 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain immediately.
  3. Create the Garlic Butter Base: Melt butter in the same pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Sauté the Beans: Add blanched beans back to the pan. Season with salt and pepper, and toss for 2-3 minutes until beans develop light golden edges.
  5. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately while warm. Garnish with lemon zest or herbs if desired.

Notes

  • For a lower-fat version, use olive oil instead of butter and reduce the amount to 2 tablespoons.
  • Add a splash of chicken broth for a lighter, saucier finish.
  • Enhance with toasted almonds or bacon bits for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Dry beans thoroughly before sautéing to avoid steaming.