Green beans can be a bit bland on their own, but with a few simple additions, they can be transformed into a delicious and flavourful side dish that will have you coming back for seconds
Green beans are a beloved vegetable that pairs brilliantly with numerous dishes, from Sunday roasts and bangers and mash to fresh salads and hearty casseroles. Yet green beans can often taste bland, and when boiled, they frequently turn soggy and forfeit their satisfying crunch.
However, these fibrous vegetables can be transformed into something utterly delectable in merely 15 minutes. Culinary experts at Inspired Taste have revealed that by incorporating just two straightforward ingredients, you can elevate fresh green beans to an entirely new level of scrumptiousness swiftly and with minimal effort.
This simple recipe technique brings rich, bold flavours to the vegetables that will make them the highlight of any dish, reports the Express.
Discussing their signature creation, the culinary specialist explained: “I love cooking fresh green beans in a skillet on the stovetop. It makes them so quick and easy.
“They’re seriously delicious, especially when you add my garlic butter to the skillet. These sautéed green beans will be perfectly tender in about 15 minutes.”
Ingredients
- 450g of fresh green beans
- One teaspoon of olive oil
- One tablespoon of butter (Plant-based butter can be used for a vegan recipe)
- Three cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest (lemon wedges to serve)
- 60ml of water or stock
Method
A straightforward and flavoursome approach to preparing fresh green beans involves sautéing them in a large skillet with a touch of oil and seasoning, permitting them to develop some gentle charring as they cook.
Begin by warming a splash of oil in a broad pan over medium-high heat.
Then incorporate the green beans and a sprinkle of salt.
As they cook, the beans will start to acquire a hint of char.
A splash of water or stock should then be poured into the pan to help them cook through whilst maintaining their satisfying crunch.
Placing a lid on the skillet captures the steam, and the beans will gently become tender in merely a few minutes.
Once soft, take off the lid and allow any excess liquid to evaporate.
To complete the dish, mix in butter, garlic, and lemon zest for zest and richness.
At this point, you can incorporate a dash of pepper or any other seasonings you fancy, such as chilli flakes.
This technique is straightforward, effective, and doesn’t require blanching.
The steam generated in the skillet delivers the same tender outcomes with minimal hassle.
The chef concluded: “This green beans recipe is fast. It’s one of the best ways to cook fresh green beans, so we make it often!”.
They also suggest serving as an accompaniment to turkey meatloaf, skillet chicken breasts, pork chops, and baked salmon.