Craving a mouthwatering side dish that's both incredibly delicious and perfectly aligned with your low-carb lifestyle? Look no further! These Southern Green Beans are about to become your new obsession, delivering restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen. With a tantalizing blend of crisp green beans, aromatic garlic, and just the right amount of heat, this recipe proves that healthy eating never has to be boring or bland.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound of fresh green beans
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly under cold running water, then trim off the tough ends by snapping or cutting them.
- Pat the green beans completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure they will crisp and sauté properly.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Carefully add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum caramelization.
- Season the green beans with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), tossing to coat evenly with the seasonings and oil.
- Cook the green beans for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender-crisp with slight charred edges and a vibrant green color.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish, allowing the green beans to rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot as a delicious, keto-friendly side dish that complements many main courses.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always thoroughly dry your green beans before cooking to ensure they sauté and caramelize beautifully instead of steaming.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For the best flavor and even cooking, a cast-iron skillet is your secret weapon. It provides superior heat distribution and creates those delightful charred edges.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Spread green beans in a single layer to allow proper caramelization. Overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of sauté.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: Medium-high heat is ideal, but watch your pan to prevent burning. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
- Customize Your Spice Level: The red pepper flakes are optional, so adjust according to your heat preference. Start with a small amount and add more if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
