Garlic Green Beans Recipe

Green beans: Fresh, trimmed green beans are the star of this dish, providing a crisp texture and vibrant color.

Garlic: Minced garlic cloves add a robust and aromatic flavor to the beans.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it helps to cook the beans evenly and adds a subtle richness.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.

To enhance the flavor of your green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the skillet. This will help them retain their vibrant color and crisp texture. After blanching, immediately transfer the green beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Then, proceed with the recipe as directed.

• trimmed green beans - Substitute with asparagus: Asparagus has a similar texture and can be cooked in the same way, providing a slightly different but still delicious flavor.

• trimmed green beans - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli florets offer a similar crunch and can absorb the garlic and oil flavors well.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar garlicky flavor, though it is less intense. Use about ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic.

• minced garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic and can add a different but pleasant taste to the dish.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a slightly different flavor profile and has a high smoke point suitable for cooking.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add a bit of moisture to the dish.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a different texture and a slightly different flavor compared to regular table salt.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor, which can add a unique twist to the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat and a different flavor profile to the dish.

• Allow the green beans to cool completely before storing. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor.
• Transfer the cooled green beans to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Ensure you remove as much air as possible to keep them fresh.
• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator. The garlic green beans will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Spread the green beans in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once the green beans are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the green beans in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them in a microwave-safe dish for a few minutes.
• For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of olive oil or a sprinkle of salt and pepper before serving.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of olive oil or a small pat of butter.
  3. Toss in the leftover green beans.
  4. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the green beans in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Check if they are heated through; if not, continue in 30-second intervals.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the green beans on a baking sheet.
  3. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Place a steamer basket in a pot with a small amount of water.
  2. Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat.
  3. Add the green beans to the steamer basket.
  4. Cover and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. Ideal for sautéing the garlic and cooking the green beans.

• Spatula: A broad, flat, flexible blade used to mix, spread, and lift food. Perfect for stirring the green beans and garlic.

• Measuring spoons: Small spoons used to measure an amount of an ingredient, either liquid or dry, when cooking. Necessary for measuring the olive oil, salt, and pepper.

• Knife: A tool with a sharp blade used for cutting. Essential for mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting. Used to protect surfaces while mincing the garlic.

• Tongs: A tool used to grip and lift objects. Useful for turning and stirring the green beans in the skillet.

• Serving dish: A dish used to present food. Used to serve the hot garlic green beans.

Trim in advance: Trim the green beans ahead of time and store them in the fridge to save prep time.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic from the store to cut down on chopping time.

Cook in batches: If you have a small skillet, cook the green beans in batches to ensure even cooking.

Microwave first: Microwave the green beans for 2-3 minutes before sautéing to reduce skillet cooking time.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the olive oil, salt, and pepper before you start cooking to streamline the process.