This sautéed green beans recipe deserves more than just steaming, and the recipe is the upgrade you’ve been looking for. With just a few minutes on the stove, the beans turn perfectly crisp-tender while soaking up the flavors of garlic and olive oil.
Heat oil in large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add trimmed green beans, cover and cook about 3 minutes or until the beans are browned on the bottoms.
Turn the beans with tongs and continue to cook 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they brown evenly. Transfer crunchy green beans to a platter.
Add garlic, capers and crushed red pepper to cast iron. Cook and stir it often until garlic turns golden.
Spoon mixture on top of beans and sprinkle with sea salt and ground black pepper, then lightly squeeze some lemon juice overtop the whole dish. Serve it immediately.
Notes
Blanching (optional): If you prefer extra-tender green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes before adding them to the skillet. This step helps them cook faster and stay bright green.
Garlic watch-out: Garlic can burn quickly, so add it toward the end of cooking or lower the heat slightly once it goes in. Burnt garlic will taste bitter.
Make ahead: You can wash and trim your green beans a day ahead to save time. Just store them in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a bag.
Serving ideas: These beans pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or holiday mains like turkey or ham.
Flavor boost: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a handful of toasted almonds for extra texture and taste.