Looking to elevate your dinner table with a vibrant and flavorful side dish? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Green Beans with Garlic and Thyme! In just 25 minutes, you can transform fresh green beans into a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. The combination of sautéed garlic and fragrant thyme perfectly complements the crisp-tender beans, making this dish not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Ready to unlock the secrets of French cuisine? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by preparing the green beans. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the ends of the beans by snapping them off or cutting them with a knife.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
- While the green beans are blanching, prepare a bowl of ice water. Once the green beans are done, immediately transfer them to the ice water using a slotted spoon to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for a few minutes.
- After the beans have cooled, drain them well and set aside. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel if necessary to remove excess moisture.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to coat the beans in the oil and garlic mixture.
- Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves over the green beans, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and slightly tender.
- Once the green beans are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and serve warm as a delicious side dish to complement your meal.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Beans: For the best flavor and texture, select bright green, firm beans without blemishes. Freshness is key to achieving that perfect crunch!
- Blanching is Essential: Don’t skip the blanching step! This technique helps preserve the vibrant color and crispness of the beans while also making them easier to sauté.
- Control the Garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing. It should be fragrant and golden but not burnt, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your green beans before serving. Depending on your preference, you may want to add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley, or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
