Description
A quick and flavorful sautéed green beans recipe featuring tender microwaved green beans tossed with fragrant garlic, toasted pine nuts, fresh lemon, and parmesan cheese for a delicious, healthy side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 12 ounces microwavable bag snipped green beans
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Oils & Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Nuts & Cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup fresh parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Microwave the Green Beans: Pierce the bag of green beans and cook on high in the microwave for 3 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
- Toast the Pine Nuts: Heat a large dry skillet over medium heat and add the pine nuts. Stir continuously and toast them until they are golden brown, being careful not to burn them.
- Remove Toasted Pine Nuts: Immediately transfer the pine nuts to a bowl to prevent further cooking and burning. Set aside.
- Heat Olive Oil: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and reheat over medium heat.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot oil and stir until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic brown or burn as it may splatter.
- Cook Green Beans: Add the microwaved green beans to the skillet and stir-fry over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, tossing to coat the beans in the garlic-infused oil and to develop slight browning on most sides.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the skillet from heat, then add lemon juice, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, and the toasted pine nuts. Toss everything well to combine evenly.
- Season: Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to the pan and toss to distribute the seasonings.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample a green bean and adjust seasoning by adding more salt and/or pepper as desired.
- Serve: Enjoy this bright and textured sautéed green bean dish warm as a delightful side.
Notes
- Microwaving the green beans before sautéing ensures they are tender and reduces cooking time.
- Be attentive while toasting pine nuts as they can burn quickly and become bitter.
- You can substitute pine nuts with toasted slivered almonds or walnuts for a different texture and flavor.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best bright citrus flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper at the end to suit your taste preference.
