Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty and vibrant Lemon Green Beans recipe—a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed side dish that's ready in just 20 minutes! Tender-crisp green beans are sautéed with fragrant garlic and finished with a refreshing burst of lemon zest and juice, creating the perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. A gentle steaming step ensures the beans retain their vibrant green hue and satisfying bite. For an optional touch of crunch and nuttiness, top with toasted almonds or pine nuts. Ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or meal prep, this versatile recipe is a delicious way to elevate your vegetable game. Simple, fresh, and packed with flavor, these lemon-garlic green beans will quickly become a family favorite!
Wash and trim the green beans by cutting off the tough ends.
Zest the lemon and set the zest aside. Then cut the lemon in half and juice it to yield approximately 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
Toss the green beans into the skillet and stir to coat them in the garlic oil.
Add 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet, cover, and let the green beans steam for 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and tender crisp.
Remove the lid, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Transfer the green beans to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with toasted almonds or pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Lemon Green Beans!
Calories |
508 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.8 g | 47% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1755 mg | 76% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 43.0 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.0 g | 57% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.3 g | ||
| Protein | 12.6 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 244 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 6.1 mg | 34% | |
| Potassium | 1197 mg | 25% | |
*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.