Get ready to transform your ordinary green beans into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the crisp freshness of perfectly cooked green beans with the vibrant zest of lemon, the aromatic touch of rosemary, and the delightful crunch of pistachios. It's not just a side dish; it's a flavor explosion that will elevate your meal from mundane to magnificent in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly under cold running water, then trim off the tough stem ends using a sharp knife.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the beans' flavor.
- Carefully add the trimmed green beans to the boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender.
- While the beans are cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes.
- Using tongs, immediately transfer the blanched green beans from the boiling water to the ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Drain the beans completely and pat them dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Add the dried green beans to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, tossing gently to ensure even heating.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh rosemary over the beans and continue cooking for another minute.
- Remove the skillet from heat and zest the entire lemon directly over the beans.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the beans, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the beans to a serving platter and sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Serve immediately while the beans are warm and the pistachios are crisp.
Tips
- Choose fresh, crisp green beans and avoid any that look wilted or discolored for the best texture and flavor.
- Blanching is key - don't overcook! The goal is bright green, crisp-tender beans that retain their nutritional value and vibrant color.
- The ice bath is crucial for stopping the cooking process and maintaining that beautiful green color. Don't skip this step!
- Use fresh rosemary if possible - the flavor is much more intense than dried herbs.
- Toast the pistachios lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra depth to the dish.
- For maximum flavor, use freshly ground black pepper and high-quality sea salt.
- Serve immediately after preparation to enjoy the beans at their peak temperature and crispness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
