A classic French side dish that is both simple and delicious. Tender green beans are sautéed in a pan with fresh garlic and butter, creating a light and flavorful accompaniment that elevates any main course.
⏱️22 min
📊Easy
👥4 servings
🍽️Main
quickbudget-friendlyvegetarianfamily
Ingredients
600 gfresh green beans
4 goussesgarlic
40 gbutter
1 pincéesalt
1 pincéepepper
200 mlwater
Instructions
1PREPARE THE GREEN BEANS: Rinse the green beans under cold water and trim both ends by gently snapping them off with your fingers. Cut the longer ones in half for even cooking. Peel the garlic cloves, removing the skin completely, then lightly crush them with the flat of your knife to release their flavors without finely chopping them.
2BLANCH THE GREEN BEANS: Bring a pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the green beans and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until tender but still with a slight bite. Drain them carefully in a colander and set aside.
3SAUTÉ WITH GARLIC: Melt the butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the crushed garlic cloves and let them brown for just 30 seconds to flavor the butter without letting it burn, which would make the garlic bitter. You should smell the powerful yet delicate aroma of fresh garlic.
4FINISH THE GREEN BEANS: Pour the drained green beans into the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Stir gently but regularly for 3 to 4 minutes to coat the green beans well with the garlic butter. The beans should become slightly golden at the edges and glossy.
5SEASON AND SERVE: Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your preference. Transfer the green beans to a hot serving dish, removing the garlic cloves if desired, or leave them in for extra flavor. Serve immediately as a side dish with meat or fish.