Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress? Look no further! This Cheddars Green Bean recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a delightful blend of crisp-tender green beans, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of savory herbs, all coming together in a simple yet elegant dish. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and delicious dishes that are surprisingly quick to prepare. It's a testament to how homemade cooking can be both effortless and extraordinary.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Begin by washing and trimming the ends of your fresh green beans. Snap off the tough ends; you want to aim for nice, even pieces. For a quicker cooking time, you can halve or even third the beans, depending on their size.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitter taste.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
Add the prepared green beans to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a slight bite; avoid overcooking.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasonings
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the green beans.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the Cheddars Green Beans immediately. They are delicious as a side dish to roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even steak. This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion and adds a touch of elegance to any meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Green Beans:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked green beans become mushy and lose their vibrant color. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Fresh is best: Fresh green beans offer the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and thyme to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toasted slivered almonds or pecans would add a delightful crunch to this dish.
- Spice it up: A dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes will add a spicy kick.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Bacon lovers: Crumble some cooked bacon into the green beans for a smoky, savory flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and nutritious side dish. Nutritional values will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. A general estimate is approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. It's a simple yet sophisticated side dish perfect for elevating any meal. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the ease of preparing this delicious recipe. It’s a great example of how easy it is to create healthy and flavorful meals at home.