Are you looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious side dish that comes together in minutes? Look no further! This recipe for stovetop frozen green beans is your answer. Forget complicated preparations and lengthy cooking times; this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and nutritious addition to your meal. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, using readily available ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound frozen green beans
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Toasted slivered almonds or chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Beans: No need to thaw the frozen green beans. Simply pour them directly into a medium-sized skillet.
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Sauté the Beans: Heat the olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the frozen green beans.
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Season and Cook: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the green beans, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. The cooking time may vary depending on your stove and the power setting.
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Brighten the Flavor (Optional): Stir in the lemon juice during the last minute of cooking to add a bright, fresh flavor.
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Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with toasted slivered almonds or chopped fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal. This simple side dish complements a variety of main courses, making it a versatile addition to your dinner repertoire.
Tips for the Best Stovetop Frozen Green Beans:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked green beans will be mushy. Aim for tender-crisp, with a slight bite remaining.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or experiment with different herbs and spices.
- Add Other Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding other frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn.
- Make it a complete meal: Toss in some cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
Variations:
- Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese during the last minute of cooking.
- Roasted Garlic Green Beans: Use roasted garlic instead of garlic powder for a deeper, richer flavor. Roast a whole head of garlic at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes until soft, then squeeze the cloves into the skillet.
- Balsamic Green Beans: Drizzle with balsamic glaze after cooking for a tangy sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This easy recipe for frozen green beans is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and nutritious side dish that's ready in minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy!