If you're looking for a side dish that brings a burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch to your dinner table, look no further than Crispy Green Beans with Lemon Brown Butter! This mouthwatering recipe transforms simple green beans into a gourmet delight, perfect for impressing guests or elevating a weeknight meal. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 25 minutes of your time, you can create a dish that's not only delicious but also visually stunning. Get ready to discover the secret to achieving that irresistible crispiness and a zesty finish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the green beans under cold running water, then pat them completely dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Trim the ends of the green beans, removing any tough or discolored parts, creating uniform length beans for even cooking.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat, ensuring the surface is completely dry and hot before adding beans.
- Add the green beans to the hot skillet in a single layer, allowing them to develop a deep golden-brown color and crispy exterior. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes to create a perfect char.
- Gently toss or stir the beans, continuing to cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until they are tender-crisp and have developed a rich, caramelized surface.
- Remove the green beans from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter, allowing it to melt and gradually turn a golden-brown color while releasing a nutty aroma.
- Add freshly grated lemon zest to the brown butter, stirring continuously to prevent burning and distribute the citrus flavor.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the brown butter, creating a fragrant and tangy sauce.
- Return the crispy green beans to the skillet, tossing gently to coat evenly with the lemon brown butter.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring even distribution of seasoning.
- Transfer the green beans to a serving platter, drizzling any remaining lemon brown butter over the top for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy, garnishing with additional lemon zest if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Beans: For the best texture and flavor, opt for fresh green beans. Look for beans that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch.
- Dry Thoroughly: After washing the green beans, make sure to dry them completely. Excess moisture can prevent them from crisping up in the skillet.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: When cooking the green beans, ensure they are in a single layer in the skillet. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of that desired crispy texture.
- Master the Brown Butter: Keep an eye on the butter as it melts; it can go from perfectly brown to burnt quickly. Stir constantly to achieve that nutty aroma without overcooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the green beans after tossing them in the lemon brown butter. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference for a perfectly seasoned dish.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the crispy green beans right after cooking. They are at their peak flavor and texture when hot and fresh!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
