Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This Crack Green Beans recipe, inspired by the beloved Pioneer Woman, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's the perfect complement to any main course, from grilled chicken to juicy steaks. Get ready to experience the delightful crunch and irresistible flavor of these addictive green beans – you'll be making them again and again! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and satisfying meal option without sacrificing taste. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Wash and trim the green beans. Snap off the ends and discard them. You can also halve or even quarter the beans if they are particularly long and thick, ensuring even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet. Season generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to coat the beans evenly with the butter and oil mixture.
Step 4: Simmer and Crisp
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want them to retain a bit of their crunch, not to become mushy.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the green beans are cooked to your liking, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to allow any excess liquid to evaporate. This helps to create a slightly crispier texture. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crack Green Beans:
- Don't overcook the green beans! They should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Fresh green beans are best. Frozen green beans can be used in a pinch, but they may require slightly less cooking time.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like more heat, add more red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit them altogether.
- For extra flavor: consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end of cooking.
Variations:
- Bacon Crack Green Beans: Add 4-5 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon to the skillet along with the onions for a smoky, savory twist.
- Garlic Lovers: Add an extra clove or two of garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Roasted Crack Green Beans: Roast the green beans in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes for a different texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Protein: 3-4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
These delicious Crack Green Beans are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. They are perfect for a quick dinner idea and demonstrate the magic of homemade cooking. Enjoy!