Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful side dish to elevate your next Italian meal? Look no further! This recipe for Italian green beans is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and requires minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this healthy and delicious side dish will quickly become a family favorite. It’s one of those easy recipes that delivers maximum taste with minimal fuss – ideal for busy weeknights and beginner cooks alike. Let's dive into this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Start by washing and trimming your green beans. Snap off the ends and discard them. You can leave them whole or cut them into smaller pieces, depending on your preference. For a quicker cooking time, consider halving or even quartering thicker beans.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat the olive oil 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 and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a slight bite, so don't overcook them.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. This step adds depth of flavor and helps create a light sauce. If omitting the wine, simply increase the cooking time slightly to allow the beans to soften in the broth.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, consider using a good quality olive oil.
- Don't overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the green beans in batches to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or basil.
Variations:
- Sausage and Green Bean Recipe: Add cooked Italian sausage to the skillet along with the green beans for a heartier side dish or even a light main course.
- Lemon-Garlic Green Beans: Boost the lemon flavor by adding the zest of half a lemon along with the juice.
- Roasted Green Beans: For a different texture, roast the green beans in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes before adding them to the skillet with the garlic and other ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the ingredients used and serving size. However, a typical serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 100-150
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This simple Italian green bean recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make dish! It's perfect alongside pasta, grilled meats, or even as a standalone side for a light yet satisfying meal. Homemade cooking doesn’t get much easier than this. Enjoy!