Are you looking for a delicious and healthy side dish that comes together in minutes? Look no further! This simple frozen green bean recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a fantastic way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable without spending hours in the kitchen. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal addition. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound frozen green beans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the green beans: If your frozen green beans are still in a large block, break them apart into smaller pieces before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents large clumps.
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Sauté the aromatics (optional): For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly sauté minced garlic (about 1-2 cloves) in the olive oil for about 30 seconds before adding the green beans. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Cook the green beans: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the frozen green beans to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Frozen green beans cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
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Season and serve: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. If using, stir in the Parmesan cheese during the last minute of cooking. Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish to your favorite protein.
Tips for the Best Frozen Green Beans:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity of green beans, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and browning. Overcrowding the pan will steam the beans instead of sautéing them.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more complex flavor profile.
- Add other vegetables: Enhance this recipe by adding other frozen vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn. Adjust cooking times as needed depending on the other vegetables you add.
Variations:
- Lemon-Garlic Green Beans: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon along with the garlic powder for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Roasted Green Beans: For a different texture, toss the frozen green beans with olive oil and seasonings, then roast them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Creamy Green Beans: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier side dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe's nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a typical serving of this dish is relatively low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins. Using a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients will give the most accurate nutritional data.
This simple frozen green bean recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and the results will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!