Get ready to transform your ordinary green beans into a mouthwatering side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds! These Make Ahead Garlic Green Beans are not just a simple vegetable side, but a culinary experience that combines the perfect balance of crisp texture, aromatic garlic, and a delightful hint of caramelization. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for make-ahead meal prep or a food enthusiast seeking a restaurant-quality vegetable dish, this recipe is about to become your new go-to green bean sensation.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the green beans thoroughly under cool running water, then pat them dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Trim the ends of the green beans by cutting off the tough stem ends, ensuring uniform length and removing any blemished or discolored parts.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves using a sharp knife or garlic press, creating small, uniform pieces that will distribute evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat, allowing the oil to become hot but not smoking.
- Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release its aromatic flavors.
- Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, tossing them quickly to coat with the garlic-infused oil.
- Season the green beans with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring even distribution of seasonings.
- Cook the green beans for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become bright green and tender-crisp with slight caramelization.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer green beans to a serving dish or storage container.
- Allow the green beans to cool to room temperature before covering and refrigerating if preparing in advance.
- When ready to serve, you can reheat the green beans briefly in a skillet or microwave, or enjoy them cold as a side dish.
Tips
- Pat your green beans completely dry before cooking to ensure they sauté and caramelize instead of steaming.
- Use fresh garlic for the most intense flavor - pre-minced garlic from a jar won't provide the same aromatic punch.
- Don't overcrowd the pan - this helps the green beans maintain their crisp texture and caramelize evenly.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or toasted sliced almonds just before serving.
- If preparing in advance, store the green beans in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- For a variation, try adding red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra flavor dimension.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
