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Garlic Butter Green Bean Stir Fry is not just a side dish; it's a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that can elevate any meal. This dish is both simple and delightful, making it an ideal accompaniment to a wide variety of main courses, from grilled meats to hearty grains. The beauty of this recipe lies in its accessibility; with just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a side that is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Garlic Butter Green Bean Stir Fry

Discover the vibrant and delicious Garlic Butter Green Bean Stir Fry, a delightful side dish that elevates any meal. Packed with fresh green beans, aromatic garlic, and rich unsalted butter, this recipe is both simple and nourishing. The addition of soy sauce and lemon juice brightens the flavors, while optional ingredients let you customize it to your taste. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this colorful stir fry is a must-try for healthy, tasty eating.
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Ingredients
  

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 teaspoons sesame seeds (for garnish)

Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Green Beans:

    Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for approximately 3-4 minutes. The beans should turn bright green and be just slightly tender. Drain the beans immediately and plunge them into an ice water bath to halt the cooking process. After they are thoroughly cooled, drain the beans again and set them aside for later.

      Melt the Butter:

        In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely. Watch for the butter to foam slightly, which indicates it is hot enough to proceed to the next step.

          Sauté the Garlic:

            Add the minced garlic to the hot butter and sauté for about 30 seconds. Stir continuously until the garlic becomes fragrant, ensuring it does not brown, as browned garlic can develop a bitter taste.

              Stir in the Green Beans:

                Incorporate the blanched green beans into the skillet, stirring thoroughly to coat them with the garlic butter. Sauté the beans for approximately 4-5 minutes, allowing them to develop a slight crispness while warming through.

                  Season the Stir Fry:

                    Drizzle the soy sauce and fresh lemon juice over the green beans. If you prefer a touch of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Toss all ingredients together for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the green beans are well coated with the sauce.

                      Taste and Adjust:

                        Season your stir fry with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Remove the skillet from heat when the green beans are tender yet still crisp, creating the perfect texture.

                          Serve and Garnish:

                            Transfer the garlic butter green bean stir fry to a serving dish, making it visually appealing. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a generous amount of fresh lemon zest for a bright finish. Serve immediately and relish this delightful side dish!

                              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4