Why You’ll Love Garlic Lemon Green Beans Recipe

It’s quick and easy: you can have a dish ready in about 15 minutes.
The lemon juice adds a lively citrus note, elevating ordinary green beans into something special.
Garlic and butter give it a rich, comforting flavor that pairs well with just about any main dish.
It works as both a side dish or a light lunch/snack on its own.
It requires minimal ingredients and prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want something healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Thin green beans (such as French green beans), cleaned and trimmed
Butter (salted)
Olive oil
Fresh lemon juice
Garlic powder
Kosher salt
Ground black pepper

Directions

If you’re using regular green beans (not the thinner French variety), prepare a large bowl of ice water and set aside.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the green beans for about 3 minutes. Then drain and immediately transfer them to the ice water to stop the cooking. Once cooled, drain well.
Heat a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Add butter and olive oil. Once hot, add the green beans along with the lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3‑4 minutes.
If you skipped the par‑boil (for very thin beans), you’ll instead cook for about 5 minutes or until the beans reach your preferred level of doneness.
Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Replace garlic powder with fresh minced garlic if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor.
Add a handful of toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts for crunch.
Toss in fresh herbs at the end, such as chopped parsley or basil, for extra freshness.
Use lemon zest in addition to juice for a more pronounced lemon flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2‑3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through; you can add a splash of olive oil or a little extra lemon juice if the beans have dried out.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as the beans may become soft and lose crispness.

FAQs

What type of green beans are best for this recipe?

Thin “French” green beans are ideal because they cook quickly and evenly. If using standard green beans, the recipe includes a short par‑boil step to ensure they become tender.

Can I skip the par‑boil step?

Yes — if your green beans are very thin and you prefer a crisper texture. Just increase the sauté time in the skillet by a couple of minutes until they’re cooked to your liking.

How can I make this vegan?

Replace the butter with a vegan butter or additional olive oil. The rest of the ingredients are already plant‑based.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can include thinly sliced carrots, snap peas, or asparagus. Just adjust the cook time so everything reaches your preferred doneness.

How can I make the lemon flavor more intense?

Use both lemon juice and a bit of lemon zest. You can add the zest at the end of cooking for a burst of citrus aroma.

Will the garlic flavor be strong?

This recipe uses garlic powder for a bright but not overpowering garlic note. If you love garlic, you can increase the amount or switch to fresh minced garlic—adding it in the skillet at the start of cooking.

Is this side dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the beans (including the par‑boil) ahead of time, refrigerate them, and then finish the sauté with butter, oil, lemon, and seasonings just before serving.

Can I make this ahead of time for a crowd?

You can cook the beans and keep them warm in a low oven covered, or finish them ahead and reheat briefly before serving. They’ll stay tasty for short periods without losing quality.

What can I serve this dish with?

This green bean side pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted meats like steak, chicken, or fish. It can also complement vegetarian mains and help round out a healthy dinner.

Will the beans become soggy if I cook them too long?

Yes — overcooking will make them mushy. Aim for a bright green color and tender‑crisp texture. The par‑boil plus quick skillet finish helps maintain that ideal texture.

Conclusion

This garlic lemon green bean recipe offers a quick, flavorful way to elevate a basic vegetable into a standout side. With tender beans, a touch of garlic and lemon, and a silky combination of butter and olive oil, it checks all the boxes: fresh, satisfying, and flexible. Whether you’re pairing it with meat, fish, or a vegetarian main, this dish makes your plate more vibrant and your prep hassle‑free.