No More Plain Jane Green Beans

Transform your dinner table with 'No More Plain Jane Green Beans'—a vibrant and flavorful take on a classic side dish! Crisp-tender fresh green beans are blanched to perfection, then sautéed in a luscious blend of olive oil, butter, and garlic for a mouthwatering base. Bright notes of lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice infuse a citrusy zing, while toasted sliced almonds add a satisfying crunch. The recipe is elevated further with a touch of spice from optional red pepper flakes. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this easy green bean recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or elegant holiday feasts. Bursting with bold flavors and finished with a hearty sprinkle of toasted almonds, 'No More Plain Jane Green Beans' will quickly become your go-to vegetable side dish!

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 0.25 cup sliced almonds
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Wash and trim the green beans, removing the stem ends.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until they are brightly green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbling.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 5

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat the beans in the oil, butter, and garlic mixture. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the beans are warmed through and slightly seared.

Step 6

Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 7

In a separate small skillet or in the microwave, toast the sliced almonds for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and aromatic, being careful not to burn them.

Step 8

Remove the green beans from the heat and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top.

Step 9

Serve immediately and enjoy your 'No More Plain Jane Green Beans'!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	559.3 grams (559.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	710

Total Fat 57.50g	74%
Saturated Fat 12.30g	62%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.00g
Cholesterol 33mg	11%
Sodium 1283mg	56%
Total Carbohydrate 44.20g	16%
Dietary Fiber 20.90g	75%
Total Sugars 16.60g
Protein 15.90g	32%

Vitamin D 2IU	11%
Calcium 297mg	23%
Iron 6mg	35%
Potassium 1288mg	27%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 68.3%

Protein: 8.4%

Carbs: 23.3%