Craving that incredible green bean side dish you always get at Cracker Barrel? You don't have to wait for your next trip! This recipe perfectly recreates that same delicious, buttery, garlicky goodness right in your own kitchen. It’s a simple, quick recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This easy recipe is a great addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra flavor and moisture)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Wash and trim the ends of your fresh green beans. You can snap them off easily by hand or use a knife for a cleaner cut. If your green beans are particularly large, you may want to halve them lengthwise for more even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a little bit of a bite.
Step 4: Season and Simmer (Optional)
Season the green beans with salt and pepper. If you'd like extra flavor and moisture, stir in the chicken broth and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and coat the beans.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your delicious Cracker Barrel-style green beans immediately. They're wonderful as a side dish with almost any main course.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Green Beans:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked green beans become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Fresh is best: Fresh green beans offer the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
- Add some herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary during the last minute of cooking.
Variations:
- Bacon Green Beans: Add 2-3 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon to the skillet with the garlic for a smoky, savory twist.
- Toasted Almond Green Beans: Toss in a handful of toasted slivered almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- Lemon Green Beans: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright, zesty touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious side dish. Nutritional information will vary depending on the amount of butter and optional additions. A general estimate for one serving is approximately:
- Calories: 100-150
- Fat: 8-12g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This simple recipe for Cracker Barrel green beans is a testament to how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy!