The Best Green Beans Ever
User Reviews
4.9
The Best Green Beans Ever
Description
The Best Green Beans Ever involves steaming fresh green beans to achieve either a tender-crisp or soft texture depending on preference, typically 5 to 12 minutes. After steaming, the beans are cooked in salted butter on medium-high heat, stirring constantly to brown the butter and coat the beans. This step enhances the flavor and adds a slight caramelized richness.
The beans have a smooth, slightly glossy surface from the butter, with seasoning balanced by salt and pepper. The method highlights the natural sweetness of fresh green beans while adding depth from browned butter.
This versatile side pairs well with a variety of main courses. It can be served hot immediately for best texture and flavor. The optional inclusion of garlic, onion, red pepper flakes, herbs, or bacon fat allows tailoring to different flavor profiles or preferences. It is a straightforward recipe that emphasizes fresh produce and classic seasoning.
Adding minced garlic or onions enhances aroma, while spices or herbs add complexity. Using bacon grease and bits creates a smoky, savory variation. These customizations can be added during the butter sauté step.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds Green bean ends trimmed, fresh
- 4 tablespoons butter salted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Fill the bottom of a steamer pot with 2 to 3 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Place 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans into the steamer basket. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and steam until tender. About 5 minutes for tender-crisp and 10 to 12 minutes for soft.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 4 tablespoons salted butter and add in the steamed green beans. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, allowing the butter to brown. Serve hot.
Notes
- Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 teaspoon minced garlic for additional aroma.
- Incorporate 2 tablespoons minced onion or 1 teaspoon onion powder for a savory depth.
- Include 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning to add herbal notes.
- For a smoky flavor, substitute butter with bacon grease and stir in cooked crumbled bacon or bacon bits.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 102 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 102kcal | 5% |
| Carbohydrates | 8g | 3% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 20mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 461mg | 19% |
| Potassium | 239mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 1015IU | 20% |
| Vitamin C | 13.9mg | 15% |
| Calcium | 44mg | 4% |
| Iron | 1.2mg | 7% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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