Name: Sautéed Green Beans
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound green beans, trimmed; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

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These sautéed green beans are crisp-tender, vibrant, and packed with flavor—ready in just 10 minutes. With garlic, lemon, and a touch of butter, this simple pan-fried side dish complements everything from grilled meats to pasta dinners. It’s quick, healthy, and made with only a handful of ingredients.

Sautéed Green Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and easy: Ready in just 10 minutes from start to finish.
Simple ingredients: You likely have everything on hand already.
Perfect texture: Crisp yet tender green beans every time.
Versatile: Works with almost any main dish or cuisine.
Fresh and flavorful: Garlic and lemon elevate the flavor without overpowering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
green beans, trimmed
sea salt
black pepper
unsalted butter
garlic, minced
lemon juice

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the trimmed green beans to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 4 minutes, until bright green and just barely tender.
Push the green beans to the sides of the skillet to create space in the center.
Add the butter to the center and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring just the garlic, until fragrant.
Mix the garlic and butter into the green beans, stirring to coat evenly.
Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice. Toss once more and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add crunch: Toss in slivered almonds or chopped walnuts before serving.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Parmesan topping: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the hot beans.
Use shallots: Sauté thinly sliced shallots with the garlic for extra depth.
Balsamic twist: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze instead of lemon juice.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
Avoid freezing, as the green beans may lose their texture and become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but thaw and pat them dry before sautéing to avoid excess moisture.

Should I blanch the green beans first?

Not necessary for this recipe. The sautéing gives them a crisp-tender texture on its own.

Can I make these ahead of time?

They’re best fresh, but you can prep the beans and garlic in advance to speed things up.

What type of pan should I use?

A large skillet or sauté pan works best for even cooking and quick sautéing.

Can I skip the butter?

Yes, but the butter adds a rich flavor. You can use more olive oil or a plant-based butter as an alternative.

What’s the best way to trim green beans?

Snap or cut off the stem end of each bean. The tapered tip is edible and doesn’t need removal.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure your pan is large enough or cook in batches to avoid steaming the beans.

Is this dish vegan?

It is if you use plant-based butter or omit it completely.

How do I make the beans softer?

Add 1–2 tablespoons of water to the pan and cover for 2–3 minutes to steam them slightly.

What can I serve these with?

Perfect alongside chicken, steak, fish, pasta, or over a grain bowl for a healthy touch.

Conclusion

These 10-minute sautéed green beans are a go-to side dish that combines simplicity with bold, fresh flavor. Garlic and lemon enhance the natural taste of the beans, while butter adds a hint of richness. Whether you’re cooking a holiday meal or a quick weeknight dinner, this easy vegetable dish will quickly become a staple at your table.