Green Beans With Herb Butter
A flavorful side of green beans sautéed with fragrant herb butter, garlic, and almonds, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings seeking fresh, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut green beans into thin slices.
- Cook beans, covered, in 1/2-inch boiling salted water for 15 minutes or until tender.
- Drain the beans.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté minced onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add minced celery, rosemary, dried basil, and salt; cook for 2 minutes.
- Add drained green beans and sliced almonds; cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring.
- Stir in chopped parsley and red pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest when serving the green beans. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried herbs can work well—use about a third of the amount specified. To achieve a nuttier flavor, toast the sliced almonds before adding them to the dish. This recipe pairs beautifully with Southern Fruit Pie for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the green beans warm as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. They also complement a hearty pasta dish or can be included in a vegetarian spread. This recipe is especially great for gatherings, offering a fresh, flavorful option among your favorite American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave in short intervals. This helps preserve the flavor and texture of the green beans.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans With Herb Butter contains roughly 241 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (166% of the Daily Value), iron (81% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 686mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
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 make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine. This will still provide a rich flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper along with the red pepper to taste. You can also serve with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little extra kick.
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).