These perfectly cooked green beans are tender yet crisp, making them a delightful side dish. Seasoned simply with garlic and olive oil, they complement any main course beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Beans:
- Wash and trim the ends of the green beans.
- Blanch the Beans:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Green Beans:
- Add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat in the garlic oil and cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Finish with Lemon Juice:
- If desired, drizzle with lemon juice before serving for a bright flavor.
- Serve:
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste!