Description
Tender-crisp fresh green beans with butter, minced garlic, and a bright squeeze of lemon. An easy one-skillet side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: a pinch of kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Rinse and trim the green beans. Put the beans and 1/4 cup water in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cover and steam for 5–7 minutes, checking at 5 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp. If the skillet dries before the beans are tender, add 1 tablespoon water and cover briefly.
- Remove the lid carefully and let any remaining water evaporate, about 30–60 seconds. Pour off excess water if needed.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and minced garlic and toss for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
- Turn off the heat. Toss with the lemon juice and black pepper. Taste, add a pinch of kosher salt if needed, and serve warm.
Notes
Equipment: large skillet with a tight-fitting lid, tongs, knife, cutting board, and measuring spoons. Cooking time is approximate and varies with bean thickness. Use salted butter if preferred, then taste before adding salt. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours and use within 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a teaspoon of water until hot.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop