Garlic String Beans: A Simple, Flavorful Side Dish
This recipe for garlic string beans is quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. It's the perfect side dish for any meal, from weeknight dinners to special occasions. The simple yet powerful combination of fresh garlic and tender string beans creates a dish that's both satisfying and elegant. This recipe is easily adaptable to your taste, so feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound fresh string beans, trimmed
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (or more, to taste!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the String Beans: Wash and trim the ends of the string beans. You can snap them off easily by bending the bean until it naturally breaks. For a more tender result, consider blanching the beans before sautéing. To blanch, simply boil them in salted water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This will retain their vibrant green color and improve texture.
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Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
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Cook the String Beans: Add the prepared string beans to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. If using blanched beans, they'll cook more quickly.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the lemon juice (if using) and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Boost the flavor: Include a tablespoon of butter at the end for a richer flavor.
- Add some herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
- Make it a complete meal: Add some cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a heartier dish.
- Roast them: For a different texture, roast the string beans in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through.
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