Tender Garlic Green Beans (No Fuss Side)
These garlic green beans are ready in just 15 minutes using pantry staples and fresh green beans. The covered-pan method with a splash of water creates steam that tenders the beans perfectly while the garlic infuses every bite. This simple technique works for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings—no fuss, just flavorful vegetables everyone will eat.
Ingredients
- 2 cubes frozen crushed garlic or 2 teaspoons fresh minced garlic
- 12 oz fresh green beans trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2-3 oz filtered water if using fresh green beans
Instructions
- Heat a frying pan on medium heat with olive oil and frozen crushed garlic for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
- Add green beans to the pan and season with salt. Toss to coat beans in the garlic oil.
- Add 2-3 oz of filtered water to the pan, then cover with a lid. Keep heat at medium until water comes to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let simmer covered for 8-10 minutes until green beans are tender to your liking. Check occasionally to make sure water hasn't evaporated—add a splash more if needed.
- Remove lid, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Notes
Fresh vs. Frozen Green Beans: Fresh trimmed green beans work best, but frozen can be used in a pinch. If using frozen, skip the added water as frozen beans release moisture while cooking.
Watch the Water: Keep an eye on your pan every once in a while—the water can evaporate faster than you'd expect. If it runs dry at high heat, you might get lucky like I did, but add a splash more water to be safe!
Garlic Options: Frozen crushed garlic cubes are convenient, but fresh minced garlic (2 teaspoons) or garlic powder (1 teaspoon) also work. Fresh gives the best flavor. And remember—more garlic is never a bad thing here.
Tenderness Preference: Cooking time varies based on how you like your beans. For crisp-tender, cook 6-8 minutes. For fully tender, go 8-10 minutes. Or just grab one and taste it!
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Scaling: This recipe doubles or halves easily. Use a larger pan if doubling to ensure beans cook evenly.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 89kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 6mgPotassium: 182mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 587IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 33mgIron: 1mg
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