Garlic Basil Green Beans
Garlic basil green beans offer a vibrant, flavorful side with fresh green beans infused with aromatic garlic and basil, perfect for a quick, healthy, and delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse and trim the green beans.
- Steam the green beans until crisp-tender, about 7 to 8 minutes.
- While the beans cook, combine chicken broth, dried basil, minced garlic, and cornstarch in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Arrange the cooked beans in a serving dish.
- Pour the garlic basil sauce over the green beans.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider using fresh basil instead of dried. If you're out of chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can work in a pinch. To enhance the garlic flavor, try roasting the garlic before adding it to the sauce. Be careful not to overcook the green beans; they should remain crisp for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Basil Green Beans make a vibrant side dish for grilled meats or fish, and they pair beautifully with Easy Chicken Delight. Consider adding toasted almonds or pine nuts on top for added crunch. Serve alongside a refreshing salad or a hearty soup, like Savory Tomato Soup, for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently steam the green beans again or microwave them briefly, covered, to retain moisture without overcooking. Avoid reheating in a pan, as this may cause them to become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic Basil Green Beans contains roughly 265 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g 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, frozen green beans can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Ensure they are fully thawed and drain any excess water before proceeding with the recipe. Fresh green beans offer a better texture and flavor, but frozen can still be a convenient option.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make Garlic Basil Green Beans vegan, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. This will retain the flavor while ensuring the dish is plant-based. You can also add a splash of soy sauce for extra depth if desired.
What can I serve with Garlic Basil Green Beans?
These green beans are versatile and complement many dishes. They pair well with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty pasta dish. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a quinoa salad or alongside a comforting bowl of Cabbage Soup(Diabetic-Low Cholesterol-Weight Loss).
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).