Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups trimmed fresh green beans (cut as desired)
Fats and Oils
- 1 tablespoon butter (or use all olive oil to be dairy free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 1/4 cup water (for skillet method only)
Instructions
- Prepare Green Beans: Trim and cut the fresh green beans to your desired size for both cooking methods.
- Skillet Heating: In a large shallow pan, heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering.
- Cook Green Beans (Skillet): Add the green beans to the skillet and cook, stirring, for about 4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, stirring to combine and release flavors.
- Steam Green Beans: Pour in 1/4 cup water and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on how tender you want the beans—3 to 4 minutes gives a crisp-tender texture.
- Brown and Char (Skillet): Remove the lid, turn the heat to high, and continue cooking while stirring constantly until the water evaporates and some beans develop a slight brown char.
- Season and Serve (Skillet): Add salt and pepper to taste, toss well, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
- Grill Preparation: For grilling, coat the trimmed green beans with olive oil only, then toss them with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Grill Green Beans: Using a high-sided grill pan with holes, place the green beans over medium-high heat and grill for about 10 minutes, tossing frequently. Aim for some beans to get a nice char for smoky flavor.
- Serve (Grill): Once grilled to your preference, transfer the beans to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for a smoky, garlicky side.
Notes
- Use all olive oil instead of butter to keep the dish dairy free.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference or omit for a milder flavor.
- Freshly minced garlic provides the best aroma and taste.
- For the best char when grilling, use a high-sided grill pan with holes to prevent beans from falling through.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or vegetarian mains.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free