Canned green beans offer a convenient and affordable way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable any time of year. This simple recipe elevates the humble canned green bean into a tasty side dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. It's quick, easy, and customizable to your taste!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe focuses on simplicity and enhancing the natural flavor of the green beans. We avoid overwhelming them with heavy sauces or complex techniques, allowing the bright, fresh taste to shine through. The addition of a few simple seasonings transforms these everyday beans into a delicious and satisfying side.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 (15-ounce) can of green beans, drained
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Toasted slivered almonds or crispy fried onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Drain the green beans: Open the can of green beans and thoroughly drain them in a colander. Rinsing them under cold water is optional, but it can help remove excess sodium.
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Melt the butter: Melt the butter in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat.
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Add the green beans: Add the drained green beans to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through.
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Season and cook: Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and onion powder (if using). Stir well to coat the green beans evenly. Continue cooking for another minute or two, until the seasonings are incorporated and the beans are tender-crisp.
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Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the green beans immediately. Garnish with toasted slivered almonds or crispy fried onions, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh green beans! Simply blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until tender-crisp before proceeding with the recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, depending on the thickness of the beans.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the skillet along with the other seasonings. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
What other seasonings can I use?
Experiment with different herbs and spices! Dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano would complement the green beans nicely. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds a bright, fresh flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the green beans are best served immediately, you can prepare them ahead of time and reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave. However, they may become slightly softer after reheating.
Are canned green beans healthy?
Canned green beans are a good source of fiber and vitamins. However, they often contain added sodium, so rinsing them before cooking can help reduce the sodium content.
Tips for the Best Canned Green Bean Recipe
- Don't overcook the beans: Overcooked green beans become mushy. Cook them just until they're heated through and tender-crisp.
- Season to taste: Adjust the seasonings to your personal preferences.
- Get creative with garnishes: Toasted nuts, crispy onions, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream or yogurt can elevate this simple dish.
This simple canned green bean recipe is a versatile and delicious side dish that's perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can enjoy a healthy and flavorful addition to your next meal. Enjoy!
