Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! Blistered green beans are the perfect answer. This simple recipe elevates everyday green beans from bland to unbelievably delicious with just a few minutes of cooking time. It's a fantastic addition to any meal, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion gathering. Get ready to experience the magic of perfectly blistered green beans!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Green Beans
Start by trimming the ends off your green beans. A quick snap at the ends is usually all you need. Then, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them to blister properly and prevents steaming.
Step 2: Blistering Time!
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you should see a slight shimmer), add the green beans to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to work in batches if necessary.
Step 3: Season and Cook
Season the green beans generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beans are bright green and have developed some nice blisters and char marks – about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcook them; you want them to retain a slight crispness.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately transfer the blistered green beans to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy this simple yet delicious side dish alongside your favorite protein and grains.
Tips for the Best Blistered Green Beans:
- Use good quality olive oil: The flavor of the olive oil will shine through, so opt for a good extra virgin olive oil.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will steam the beans instead of blistering them. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Red pepper flakes would add a nice kick!
- Watch the cooking time: Overcooked green beans will be mushy. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they achieve the perfect level of doneness.
Variations:
- Lemon-Garlic Blistered Green Beans: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Blistered Green Beans with Toasted Almonds: Toast some slivered almonds and sprinkle them over the green beans before serving for added crunch and flavor.
- Spicy Blistered Green Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the seasonings for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber, with minimal calories. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 7-9g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This easy recipe offers a healthy and delicious side dish option. It's perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a simple yet impressive accompaniment to your main course. Try this recipe today and experience the delightful simplicity of perfectly blistered green beans!