Garlic Green Beans

Looking for an easy plant-based recipe that's perfect for beginners? These garlic green beans are a quick, flavorful plant-based side dish that pairs perfectly with any dinner. Made with fresh green beans sautéed in fragrant garlic and olive oil, this dish is simple to prepare yet packed with vibrant flavor. Whether you're new to a plant-based diet or just need a quick, healthy side, these green beans are sure to become a staple at your table.

Garlic Green Beans (Plant-Based Recipe)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• 2 tbsp slivered almonds or toasted sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

3. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp.

4. Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice if using. Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

5. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with slivered almonds or toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 110
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Fat: 7g

Cost per serving: $1.00

Things You'll Love About This Recipe:
Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes
A healthy, fiber-rich side dish packed with flavor
Naturally plant-based and perfect for any meal
Simple ingredients with bold, fresh taste

Expert Tips for Best Results:
Blanching the green beans helps keep their vibrant color and crisp texture
Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness
For extra flavor, toss in a splash of tamari or soy sauce

Substitutions:
Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different flavor
Swap slivered almonds for toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds
Add a dash of balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice for a tangy twist

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a side dish with plant-based mains like lentil loaf or quinoa bowls
Add to a grain salad for extra crunch and flavor
Top with plant-based parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor

Why This Recipe Works:
Blanching the green beans keeps them crisp and bright, while sautéing them in garlic-infused oil adds a savory, rich depth of flavor

Flavor Variations:
Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor
Toss in cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added color and sweetness
Include fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an herby twist

Highlight Ingredients:
Green beans provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
Garlic adds a bold, savory flavor while offering health benefits
Olive oil brings healthy fats and richness to the dish

Meal Prep Ideas:
Blanch green beans ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat in a skillet before serving to maintain crispness
Double the recipe and store leftovers in an airtight container for quick sides throughout the week

Equipment List:
Large pot for blanching
Skillet for sautéing
Colander for draining
Mixing bowl for ice bath

Grocery List:
Fresh green beans
Olive oil
Garlic
Salt and pepper
Lemon (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Slivered almonds or sesame seeds (optional)