Brighten your table with this quick and refreshing Lemony Garlic Beans Microwave recipe—a fuss-free side dish that bursts with zesty citrus flavor and aromatic garlic. Perfectly tender-crisp green beans are tossed in olive oil, fresh minced garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, then steamed in the microwave for a healthy, no-hassle preparation. Ready in just 10 minutes and requiring minimal cleanup, this vibrant dish is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. With the natural flavors of fresh produce shining through, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted fish, or as part of a vegetarian spread. Plus, the light drizzle of lemon and hint of black pepper elevate this simple recipe into a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Rinse the green beans thoroughly under cold water, then trim the ends using a knife or kitchen scissors.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
Slice the lemon in half. Set one half aside and juice the other half into a small bowl. Remove any seeds.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the green beans, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and water. Toss everything together to coat the beans evenly.
Cover the bowl tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a microwave-safe plate to trap steam. Be sure to leave a small vent for steam to escape.
Microwave the beans on high for 3-5 minutes, depending on their thickness and your microwave’s power. Check for doneness at the 3-minute mark by piercing a bean with a fork; it should be tender but still crisp.
Carefully remove the covering, as hot steam will escape. Stir the beans and squeeze the juice from the remaining lemon half over the beans. Toss gently to combine.
Transfer the beans to a serving dish. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for added flavor. Serve immediately as a side dish.
Calories |
259 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.8 g | 19% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1206 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.4 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.5 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.4 g | ||
| Protein | 7.2 g | 14% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 157 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 4.1 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 784 mg | 17% | |
*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.