Imagine transforming ordinary green beans into a restaurant-worthy side dish that's bursting with flavor, texture, and pure culinary magic. These Cast Iron Skillet Green Beans are not just a simple vegetable side, but a game-changing recipe that will elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent. With just a few simple ingredients and the power of a well-seasoned cast iron skillet, you'll create a dish so delicious, your family and guests will be begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly under cold running water. Trim the ends of the beans by cutting off the tough stem ends and removing any blemished or discolored parts.
- Pat the green beans completely dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Ensuring the beans are dry will help them achieve a nice crisp texture when cooking.
- Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up for about 1-2 minutes until it shimmers but does not smoke.
- Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet and sauté for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown.
- Carefully add the dried green beans to the skillet. Spread them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum surface contact with the hot skillet.
- Cook the green beans for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even browning. The beans should develop some charred spots and become tender-crisp.
- Season the green beans with salt and black pepper to taste, tossing to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the skillet.
- Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the green beans, stirring to combine and add a bright, fresh flavor.
- Transfer the green beans to a serving platter and serve immediately while hot, allowing the cast iron skillet's residual heat to keep them warm.
Tips
- Dryness is Key: Always thoroughly dry your green beans before cooking to achieve that perfect crispy exterior and prevent steaming.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure beans are in a single layer in the skillet for even browning and maximum caramelization.
- Control Your Heat: Medium-high heat is crucial - too low, and you'll steam the beans; too high, and you'll burn them.
- Fresh Garlic Matters: Use fresh garlic cloves for the most vibrant flavor, and be careful not to burn them.
- Season Boldly: Don't be shy with salt and pepper - they bring out the green beans' natural flavors.
- Finish with Acid: The lemon juice at the end adds brightness and helps balance the dish's richness.
- Serve Immediately: These green beans are best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet, to maintain their crisp texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
