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Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic

This recipe delivers vibrant green beans, perfectly blanched to tender-crisp, then quickly sautéed with fragrant garlic, a touch of red pepper flakes, and rich butter. Finished with bright lemon zest, it's a simple yet elegant side dish that comes together quickly and offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 733.6
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 pounds green beans ends trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 large garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 Large Stock Pot
  • 1 Large, heavy skillet
  • 1 Large Bowl For ice bath
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 Chef's Knife and Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Blanch green beans in a large stock pot of well salted boiling water until bright green in color and tender crisp, roughly 2 minutes. Drain and shock in a bowl of ice water to stop from cooking.
  2. Heat a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and the butter. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the beans and continue to saute until coated in the butter and heated through, about 5 minutes. Add lemon zest and season with salt and pepper.

Notes

1. Ensure your boiling water is generously salted; this helps season the beans from the inside out and enhances their vibrant green color. Do not overcrowd the pot when blanching. 2. The ice bath is crucial for stopping the cooking process immediately, preserving the tender-crisp texture and brilliant color. Drain the beans very well before adding to the skillet to avoid splattering. 3. Watch the garlic and red pepper flakes closely; they can burn quickly, turning bitter. Sauté just until fragrant, around 30 seconds. 4. Fresh lemon zest is key; it provides a bright, aromatic lift. Avoid the white pith, which can be bitter. 5. Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal texture and warmth.