Buttered Green Beans

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Buttered green beans are the ultimate side dish that’s both simple and delicious. With a perfect balance of savory butter, fresh green beans, and a hint of seasoning, this dish is guaranteed to complement any main course. Whether you’re preparing a holiday dinner or a weeknight meal, buttered green beans add a fresh, flavorful touch that everyone will love.

How to Make Buttered Green Beans

Making buttered green beans is quick and easy, and the results are always mouth-watering. Here’s how to prepare this simple yet flavorful dish. So let’s dive into the steps and bring this classic side dish to life in your kitchen!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Green Beans:

• Wash the green beans thoroughly. Trim the ends by cutting off the tough stems.

Blanch the Green Beans:

• Heat a large pot of salted water until it reaches a vigorous, rolling boil, ready for cooking.
• Add the green beans to the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
• Immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them sit in the ice water for a minute.

Sauté the Garlic (Optional):

• In a spacious skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, allowing it to bubble and coat the pan evenly.
• If using garlic, add 1 minced garlic clove to the butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.

Toss the Green Beans in Butter:

• Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the melted butter and garlic.
• Gently toss the green beans in the butter, ensuring they are well-coated.

Season the Green Beans:

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• If desired, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy touch.

Garnish and Serve:

• Once the green beans are evenly coated and heated through, remove from the heat.
• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a touch of color and added flavor.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

FAQ

1. Is it possible to substitute frozen green beans for fresh ones? Yes, you can! Be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking.

2. How do I store leftover buttered green beans?
Seal them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Warm gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

3. Can I make buttered green beans without butter?
If you want a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or another plant-based fat.

4. How do I make the green beans extra crispy?
For extra crispness, try sautéing the green beans in a hot skillet for a few extra minutes after tossing them in the butter, allowing them to get a little caramelized.