Basil Butter Beans
Bright and fresh with the herbal aroma of basil, these butter beans are a quick, nutritious side perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The tender green beans are complemented by fragrant herbs and buttery richness, making them a versatile dish that pairs well with grilled meats or fish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine green beans, chopped onion, chopped celery, and water.
- Cover and cook for 5 minutes or until beans are tender to taste.
- Drain the mixture.
- Add melted butter, minced fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to coat the beans evenly with the seasonings and butter.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving. If fresh basil is unavailable, a teaspoon of dried basil can be used instead. You can also substitute green beans with fresh asparagus or snap peas for a different take. When cooking, make sure to not overcook the beans to retain their vibrant color and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Basil Butter Beans make a delightful side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. They pair wonderfully with Jeanie'S Yum Yum Salad for a refreshing meal. Serve them alongside crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa for a complete vegetarian dish. Garnish with additional fresh basil for an eye-catching presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them on low power for a minute or two, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Butter Beans contains roughly 133 calories, with 6g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (226% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they don't become mushy. Frozen beans may only need about 3-4 minutes of cooking time, as they are often blanched before freezing.
What other herbs can I use in this recipe?
In addition to basil, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or parsley for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences, as some herbs are stronger than others.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beans and seasonings ahead of time, then store them separately. Just combine and heat them together when you're ready to serve. This helps to save time and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).