Lemon Green Beans
Bright and flavorful lemon green beans combine tender beans with zesty lemon and buttery richness, perfect as a fresh side dish for spring and summer meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place green beans in a large saucepan and add just enough water to cover.
- Add salt and bring to a boil.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, then remove from the pan.
- In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in grated lemon zest and lemon juice.
- Add cooked green beans to the butter mixture and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose fresh green beans that are bright green and firm. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture. You can substitute the butter with olive oil for a healthier option or use a vegan butter alternative. For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of toasted almonds for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve lemon green beans as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. They pair beautifully with Basil Butter on crusty French Bread With Herb Butter for a complete meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor, or serve alongside Deviled Carrots for a colorful plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking, or sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. They can also be enjoyed cold as a refreshing salad addition.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Green Beans contains roughly 94 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1523mg per serving (66% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to become tender. Be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the butter mixture to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Enhance the flavor by adding minced garlic to the butter just before adding the lemon zest and juice. You could also toss in some grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for a delicious, savory twist.
What other dishes pair well with lemon green beans?
Lemon green beans complement a variety of dishes, including grilled meats and seafood. They also work well with vegetarian recipes like quinoa salad or stuffed peppers, providing a fresh and zesty contrast.
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).