This sauteed green beans recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. It combines the vibrant taste of fresh green beans with the aromatic essence of garlic and Italian seasoning, all brought together by the rich, buttery undertone.
Most of these ingredients are common staples in most kitchens. However, if you don't have any, the dried Italian seasoning might be one ingredient you need to pick up from the supermarket. It's usually a blend of marjoram, thyme, rosemary, sage, oregano, and basil, and it adds a wonderful, aromatic flavor to the green beans.
Ingredients for Sauteed Green Beans
Butter: Used for sauteing the green beans; it adds a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.
Green beans: The star of this recipe; fresh green beans are preferred for their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that infuses the green beans.
Dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Kosher salt: Used to season the green beans; you can adjust the amount to your taste.
Black pepper: Gives a slight heat to the dish and enhances the other flavors.
Parsley: Used for garnishing; it adds a fresh, herby note to the sauteed green beans.
One reader, Cass Abell says:
This sautéed green beans recipe is a game-changer! The buttery, garlicky flavor combined with the tender-crisp texture of the beans is simply divine. The Italian seasoning adds a delightful touch, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Key Techniques for Perfectly Sauteed Green Beans
How to sauté green beans: This technique involves cooking the green beans in a small amount of butter or oil over medium-high heat until they are tender and slightly browned. It's important to stir the green beans frequently to ensure even cooking.
How to season with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs such as basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. When seasoning with Italian seasoning, it's important to sprinkle it evenly over the ingredients and stir well to distribute the flavors.
How to chop parsley: To chop parsley, first wash and dry the parsley thoroughly. Then, gather the leaves into a tight bundle and use a sharp knife to finely chop them. Be sure to remove any tough stems before chopping.
How To Make Sauteed Green Beans
To make sauteed green beans, fresh beans are cooked in butter with garlic and various herbs and seasonings. You’ll only need 10 minutes to cook this.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3tbspbutter
- 1lbgreen beans,trimmed
- 2tspgarlic,minced
- 1tspdried Italian seasoning
- ½tspkosher salt
- ¼tspblack pepper
- 1½tbspchopped parsley,or basil, green onions, or dill
Instructions
-
Melt the butter in a large pan over medium high heat.
-
Add the green beans and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until just tender.
-
Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Cook for 1 to 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
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Sprinkle with parsley, then serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Calories: 115.26kcal
- Fat: 8.93g
- Saturated Fat: 5.54g
- Trans Fat: 0.35g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.26g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.46g
- Carbohydrates: 8.74g
- Fiber: 3.28g
- Sugar: 3.73g
- Protein: 2.34g
- Cholesterol: 22.90mg
- Sodium: 244.36mg
- Calcium: 54.69mg
- Potassium: 259.83mg
- Iron: 1.61mg
- Vitamin A: 119.06µg
- Vitamin C: 16.29mg
Expert Tip for Achieving the Perfect Sauteed Green Beans
When sautéing green beans, it's important to not overcook them. They should still have a slight crunch to them. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and loss of vibrant green color. To achieve this, keep an eye on the beans as they cook and test them frequently by piercing with a fork. Once they're just tender, they're ready for the next step. This will ensure your green beans are perfectly cooked and full of flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sauteed Green Beans
Prep ahead: Chop and wash the green beans in advance to save time during the cooking process.
One pan wonders: Use a large pan to sauté the green beans and incorporate the flavors all in one place.
Quick seasoning: Use pre-mixed Italian seasoning to save time measuring out individual herbs and spices.
Efficient cooking: Cook the green beans until just tender to save time and retain their crisp texture.
Fresh finish: Chop the parsley while the green beans are cooking to add a fresh touch without adding extra time.
Substitute Ingredients For Sauteed Green Beans Recipe
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter and will still provide a rich flavor to the green beans.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
dried italian seasoning - Substitute with dried oregano and basil: Oregano and basil can replicate the Italian seasoning blend, adding a similar herby and aromatic profile to the green beans.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of saltiness to the dish.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a milder alternative to black pepper, adding a subtle heat and flavor to the green beans.
chopped parsley - Substitute with chopped cilantro: Cilantro can be used to provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to parsley, complementing the green beans beautifully.
How to Beautifully Present Sauteed Green Beans
Elevate the green beans: Arrange the sautéed green beans in a circular motion on the plate, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements such as cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers to add a pop of color to the dish.
Utilize height: Stack the green beans in a vertical manner to create an elegant and dynamic presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the dish with delicate and colorful edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies.
Consider plate selection: Choose a white or neutral-colored plate to allow the vibrant green beans to stand out and take center stage.
Incorporate texture: Add a sprinkle of toasted almond slices or crispy shallots to provide a delightful textural contrast to the dish.
Use a drizzle of balsamic reduction: Create an artistic drizzle of balsamic reduction on the plate to add a touch of sweetness and visual interest.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the green beans in a symmetrical pattern on the plate to create a visually pleasing and balanced presentation.
Add a touch of elegance with microgreens: Sprinkle a handful of microgreens, such as pea shoots or micro basil, on top of the green beans for a refined and luxurious touch.
Consider the plate as a canvas: Treat the plate as a canvas and arrange the green beans in a visually striking and artistic manner, allowing the dish to become a work of culinary art.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Sauteed Green Beans
- Pan: A flat-bottomed cooking utensil used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
- Tongs: A gripping tool used for lifting and turning food items while cooking.
- Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for slicing, chopping, and dicing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible tool used for lifting and flipping food items.
- Large pan: A wide, shallow cooking vessel used for sautéing and frying ingredients.
- Chopping board: A sturdy board used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
- Stove: A cooking appliance used for applying heat to cook food.
- Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
- Colander: A perforated bowl used for draining liquids from food items.
- Kitchen shears: Scissors designed for kitchen use, used for cutting and trimming ingredients.
- Peeler: A tool used for removing the outer skin or peels of fruits and vegetables.
- Serving platter: A large, flat dish used for serving and presenting food.
Storing and Freezing Sauteed Green Beans: A Guide
- To store leftover sauteed green beans, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- When ready to reheat, warm the green beans in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or butter to refresh the flavors and prevent them from drying out.
- For longer storage, you can freeze sauteed green beans. Place the cooled beans in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 6 months.
- To reheat frozen green beans, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered microwave-safe dish, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.
- If you plan to freeze the sauteed green beans, it's best to slightly undercook them initially, as this will help maintain their texture when reheated. Cook them for just 2-3 minutes instead of the full 4-5 minutes before adding the garlic and seasonings.
How To Reheat Leftover Sauteed Green Beans
- Reheat leftover sauteed green beans in a skillet over medium heat until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the green beans.
- For a quick and easy reheating option, place the leftover green beans in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the beans are heated through.
- If you have a bit more time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover sauteed green beans on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil or butter. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the beans are heated through and slightly crispy.
- For a flavorful twist, reheat the leftover green beans in a pan with a splash of chicken broth or vegetable broth. This will add moisture and enhance the flavor of the beans.
- If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the leftover sauteed green beans in just a few minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the beans in the basket, and cook for 2-3 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Interesting Trivia About Sauteed Green Beans
Green beans are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. They are also high in fiber and low in calories, making them a healthy and nutritious addition to any meal.
Is Making Sauteed Green Beans at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this sauteed green beans recipe is quite high, as it primarily requires simple and affordable ingredients. The use of green beans as the main ingredient keeps the cost low, while the addition of garlic and Italian seasoning enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the expense. With an approximate cost of $8-$10 for a household of 4 people, this recipe offers a budget-friendly option that is both nutritious and delicious. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Sauteed Green Beans Healthy or Unhealthy?
The sauteed green beans recipe is relatively healthy, as it primarily consists of green beans, which are a nutritious vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The use of garlic and Italian seasoning adds flavor without significantly increasing the calorie count. However, the recipe does include butter, which is high in saturated fat and calories. While the amount of butter used is moderate, it still contributes to the overall fat content of the dish.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with a healthier alternative, such as olive oil or coconut oil
- Add more vegetables to the dish, such as sliced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient content and fiber
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for added health benefits and flavor
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the taste without relying on salt or fat
- Serve the sauteed green beans alongside lean proteins, such as grilled chicken or fish, and complex carbohydrates, like quinoa or brown rice, for a well-balanced meal
Editor's Opinion on This Sauteed Green Beans Recipe
This sautéed green beans recipe is a delightful and simple dish that highlights the natural flavors of the green beans. The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and butter adds a rich and savory taste, while the parsley provides a fresh and vibrant finish. The cooking process ensures that the green beans are perfectly tender yet still have a satisfying crunch. This dish is a perfect side for any meal and is sure to impress with its delicious simplicity.
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Why trust this Sauteed Green Beans Recipe:
This sautéed green beans recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their vegetable game. The butter adds a rich and savory flavor, while the garlic and Italian seasoning bring a delightful aroma and depth to the dish. With just the right amount of kosher salt and black pepper, the flavors are perfectly balanced. The finishing touch of chopped parsley adds a pop of freshness. Trust this recipe to deliver a simple yet sensational side dish that will impress your guests and elevate any meal.
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