Garlic String Beans

Garlic String Beans Recipe - A Flavorful and Nutritious Side Dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Garlic string beans are a delicious and nutritious side dish that can be enjoyed with any meal. The combination of garlic, thyme, and lemon juice gives these string beans a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

History

String beans have been a staple in many cuisines for centuries. The addition of garlic and other seasonings to string beans is a popular way to enhance their flavor and create a tasty side dish.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp minced garlic
4 cups fresh or frozen string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
0.5 tsp dried thyme
0.5 tsp salt or salt-free seasoning
freshly ground black pepper
2 cups water
1 vegetable bouillon cube
squeeze of fresh lemon juice

How to prepare

In a large heavy saucepan, heat the oil.
Add the garlic and beans, and sauté over high heat to sear the beans, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Pour in the water and vegetable bouillon.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover tightly and reduce the heat to medium-low.
Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender when pierced with the tip of a sharp knife.
Add more water if needed.
If using frozen beans, the cooking time will be halved.
Finish by adding a squeeze of lemon juice and toss well.

Variations

Add sliced almonds or pine nuts for added crunch.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sear the beans in the oil and garlic to lock in the flavors.

- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences.

- Add more water if needed to prevent the beans from drying out.

- Frozen string beans can be used for a quicker cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic string beans can be served alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the beans in the oil and garlic helps to enhance their flavor and create a delicious caramelization.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh or frozen string beans for this recipe.

- Vegetable bouillon can be substituted with chicken or beef bouillon for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the garlic string beans ahead of time and reheat them before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the garlic string beans in a colorful dish garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Garlic string beans pair well with a variety of main dishes such as grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian options.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of garlic string beans contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of garlic string beans contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of garlic string beans contains approximately 7 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of garlic string beans contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Garlic string beans are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Garlic string beans are a low-calorie, nutritious side dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Garlic string beans are a simple and flavorful side dish that is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. Enjoy this dish with your favorite main course for a delicious and healthy meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Garlic String Beans. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt in the countryside. My aunt was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I was always eager to watch her in the kitchen, learning the secrets of her culinary skills.

On this particular day, my aunt was preparing a simple yet flavorful dish of Garlic String Beans. I watched intently as she washed and trimmed the fresh green beans, carefully removing the ends and any blemishes. She then heated a skillet with some olive oil and added minced garlic, letting it sizzle and release its aromatic fragrance.

As the garlic turned golden brown, my aunt tossed in the string beans, stirring them gently to coat them in the flavorful oil. She seasoned them with a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of black pepper, letting them cook until they were tender yet still crisp. Finally, she garnished the dish with some fresh parsley, giving it a pop of color and added freshness.

I was mesmerized by the simplicity of the recipe and the way my aunt effortlessly transformed a handful of ingredients into a mouthwatering dish. I begged her to teach me how to make Garlic String Beans, and she gladly obliged, guiding me through each step and sharing her tips and tricks along the way.

From that moment on, Garlic String Beans became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make them for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy weekends. The recipe never failed to impress, and I loved seeing the smiles on my loved ones' faces as they savored each flavorful bite.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own taste preferences. I experimented with different seasonings, adding a dash of paprika for a smoky kick or a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity. I even tried adding some toasted almonds or crispy bacon for extra crunch and flavor.

But no matter how much I tinkered with the recipe, the core ingredients remained the same – fresh green beans, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and parsley. These simple yet wholesome ingredients were the key to creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying, a true testament to the power of home-cooked meals made with love and care.

As I grew older, I realized that the recipe for Garlic String Beans was more than just a dish to be enjoyed at the dinner table. It was a reminder of the bond I shared with my aunt, of the memories we had created together in the kitchen, of the love and laughter that filled our hearts as we cooked and ate together.

And so, whenever I make Garlic String Beans now, I do it with a heart full of gratitude and nostalgia, honoring the legacy of my aunt and the culinary traditions she passed down to me. Each bite of those tender, garlicky green beans is a taste of the past, a connection to my roots, a celebration of the simple joys of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.

And as I sit down to enjoy a plate of Garlic String Beans, surrounded by the warmth and laughter of my own family, I can't help but smile, knowing that the recipe will continue to be passed down through the generations, bringing joy and comfort to many more hearts in the years to come.