The Best Green Beans Ever
This recipe produces tender green beans steamed until just tender or soft, then sautéed in butter to develop a nutty, browned flavor. The seasoning with salt and black pepper complements the buttery richness, creating a simple yet satisfying side dish. Optional additions like garlic, onion, spices, or bacon provide customizable flavor variations.
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
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 6 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 102
% 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.