Easy Garlic Green Beans: A Quick and Delicious 5-Ingredient Side Dish

Buttery Garlic Green Beans

If you’re craving a vibrant vegetable side, these garlic green beans offer crisp-tender freshness bathed in a buttery garlic sauce.

Why You’ll Love These Garlic Green Beans

With just five simple ingredients, this quick sauté brings out the best of fresh green beans in a creamy garlic butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a holiday side, these crisp-tender veggies are a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Garlic Green Beans

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped in half
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

How to Cook Garlic Green Beans

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and blanch for 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
2. Drain beans and immediately plunge into an ice water bath to stop cooking. Drain again and pat dry.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it foams and starts to turn golden.
4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
5. Add the green beans to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
6. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are heated through and have a slight sear.
7. Season with salt and pepper, toss again, and remove from heat.
8. Serve immediately as a vibrant, healthy side dish.

Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Green Beans

• Don’t skip the ice bath: Shocked beans stay crisp and brilliantly green.
• Fresh garlic matters: Mince or slice garlic right before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Customize the heat: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make ahead: Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve that buttery sheen.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 115 kcal |
Carbs: 9 g |
Protein: 2 g |
Fat: 9 g |
Saturated Fat: 6 g |
Cholesterol: 23 mg |
Sodium: 248 mg |
Fiber: 3 g |
Sugar: 4 g

Serve these garlic green beans alongside your favorite mains for a healthy, flavorful boost that everyone will love.