Perfectly Steamed Green Beans with Lemon Herb Butter
Want perfectly steam cook green beans every time My easy lemon herb butter trick delivers crisptender results Ditch the mushy beans Get the recipe now ... Quick & Easy Meals
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a quick and easy side dish that's both healthy and delicious? Remember those sad, soggy green beans from school dinners? Yeah, let's not go there.
Instead, we're making perfectly steam cook green beans !
Quick Hook
Ever wondered how to get that restaurant-quality snap from your green beans at home? This recipe for Perfectly Steamed Green Beans with Lemon & Herb Butter is your answer! It's all about that bright, fresh flavor.
Brief Overview
This classic side dish, elevated with simple techniques, is inspired by a traditional approach. My Nan always said, "Keep it simple, love!".
This recipe takes about 10- 12 minutes. This recipe yields 4 servings.
Main Benefits
Steaming retains more nutrients than boiling. It's perfect alongside a roast chicken or fish. What makes it special? Fresh ingredients!
Let's talk about green beans!
They are packed with vitamins and fibre. Honestly, you can't go wrong with a healthy dose of crisp tender green beans .
This recipe is dead easy. Don't be intimidated! It's easy green bean side dish material.
This steamed green beans recipe is a game-changer.
You know, the Asian Dressing with a nutty flavour is just so scrumptious. So let me tell you what makes it special.
Using fresh ingredients is the key here. You could even add an Asian Sesame Dressing for a bit of extra flavour.
Or maybe some green beans with lemon butter ? The Sesame Dressing transforms these beans into something pretty special. These are perfectly steamed vegetables .
They are just so good for you. This is one of the Healthy Dressing Recipes to make your vegetables taste great.
Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you'll need!
Perfectly Steamed Green Beans with Lemon Herb Butter Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment
Right, so what do we need for these perfectly steamed green beans ? It's dead simple, honestly. No faffing about with fancy ingredients.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) water.
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened.
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, thyme) or 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs.
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.5ml) sea salt, or to taste.
- 1/8 teaspoon (0.75ml) black pepper, or to taste.
For the green beans, you want them to look vibrant and feel firm. Avoid any that are looking a bit sad and yellow. Get some good quality ones, alright?
Seasoning Notes
Lemon and herbs are a match made in heaven. They just lift the beans. You could add a bit of garlic, too.
A clove of minced garlic would be brilliant. Use these healthy dressing recipes as inspirations. If you want Asian Dressing or even an Asian Sesame Dressing , you can change it! I’m thinking Asian Salad Dressing would be a super cool twist! You can steam cook green beans and then add Sesame Dressing .
Got no fresh lemon? Bottled will do, but fresh is always better, you know? And dried herbs are fine, just halve the amount.
Equipment Needed
- Steamer basket or insert.
- Large saucepan or pot with a tight-fitting lid.
A steamer basket is the key here. Don't have one? A metal colander that fits inside your pot will do in a pinch.
Just make sure it doesn't touch the bottom of the pot. A kitchen is a laboratory.
Perfectly Steamed Green Beans with Lemon & Herb Butter
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good easy green bean side dish ? These green beans are proper lush! We're going to steam cook green beans to perfection.
Think bright, crisp tender green beans , coated in a zingy lemon & herb butter. Inspired by my Nan's simple cooking, but with a bit of a chef's touch.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
First things first, mise en place, yeah? Basically, get everything ready before you start. This recipe is dead easy, it needs only 5 minutes prep time.
Wash and trim 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans . Measure out 2 tablespoons (30ml) water . Soften 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter .
Chop your herbs, about 1 tablespoon . Get your 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice , 1/4 teaspoon (1.5ml) sea salt , and 1/8 teaspoon (0.
75ml) black pepper ready.
Time-saving tip? Get the butter out ages before so it's proper soft.
Step-by-Step: From Hob to Gob
- Prep: Snap or cut the ends off those green beans.
- Steam Setup: Put 2 tablespoons (30ml) water in a saucepan. Put the steamer basket in.
- Steam: Boil the water. chuck the beans in the basket. Cover and steam for 5- 7 minutes .
- Butter Time: Mix the butter, lemon, herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Toss: Remove the beans. Toss with the lemon herb butter.
You're looking for bright green and tender-crisp beans.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Bean Game
Don't overcook them! Mushy beans are a crime. Seriously. For brighter beans, try blanching them for 1 minute before steaming. This also intensifies their green. Then give them an ice bath.
What about a twist? Use Asian Salad Dressing instead of the lemon herb butter. Or maybe an Asian Sesame Dressing ? That's a cool alternative! You'll make yourself some perfectly steamed vegetables with an Asian Dressing .
This could be one of the best healthy dressing recipes !
See? Steamed green beans recipe doesn't have to be boring.
Enjoy.
Recipe Notes
Right, let's talk about those extra bits and bobs. You know, the things that make your version of steamed green beans extra special!
Serving Suggestions: Make it Look Amazing!
Honestly, presentation does matter. Don't just chuck the steamed green beans on a plate. Arrange them nicely! Think a little drizzle of the lemon herb butter over the top.
A sprinkle of extra fresh herbs? Cor, now we're talking! These are the perfectly steamed vegetables , in fact.
These crisp tender green beans also go down a treat with a proper Sunday roast. Or, if you're feeling fancy, some grilled salmon.
Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh!
Got leftovers? No worries, love. Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll be good for about three days. Reheat them gently in a pan with a knob of butter.
Freezing? Mmm, probably not the best idea. They might get a bit soggy. But, hey, give it a go if you like!
Variations: Mix it Up!
Feeling adventurous? How about a bit of garlic in your butter? Or a pinch of chili flakes for a kick?
For a dairy-free option, swap the butter for olive oil. Also, try adding a Sesame Dressing for an Asian Dressing .
You can even create your own Asian Salad Dressing at home. This can turn your easy green bean side dish into something completely different.
There are plenty of Healthy Dressing Recipes out there.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite!
Green beans are packed with vitamins and fiber. They're low in calories. So, tuck in without feeling guilty!
So there you have it! Everything you need to know to make the best steamed green beans recipe . Give it a go, have some fun, and don't be afraid to put your own spin on it.
You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to steam cook green beans and how do I know when they are done?
Generally, you'll want to steam cook green beans for about 5-7 minutes. The key is to check them – they should be bright green and crisp-tender. A fork should pierce them easily but they shouldn't be mushy; you want a little bit of "snap" left. Think of it like al dente pasta, but for beans!
Can I steam cook green beans if I don't have a steamer basket?
Absolutely, don't let lack of equipment stop you! You can use a metal colander inside a pot as a makeshift steamer. Just make sure the colander is elevated enough that the green beans aren’t sitting in the water. Alternatively, the microwave method mentioned in the tips works a treat; it's like a quick 'n' dirty cheat code.
What's the best way to store leftover steamed green beans?
Leftover steamed green beans are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for about 3-4 days. When reheating, a quick zap in the microwave or a toss in a hot pan with a little butter will do the trick. Just be mindful that reheating can make them a bit softer, so don’t overdo it.
How can I make my steam cook green beans more flavorful?
Flavour is king! The lemon herb butter in this recipe is a great starting point, but don't be afraid to experiment. A little garlic, a pinch of chili flakes, or even a sprinkle of toasted almonds can take them to the next level. You could also try tossing them with a balsamic glaze after steaming for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Are steam cooked green beans actually good for you?
They sure are! Green beans are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Steaming is a gentle cooking method that helps to preserve these nutrients. Plus, this recipe uses healthy fats from the butter and olive oil (if subbed), and a generous dose of herbs that are also full of goodness. So you can enjoy these guilt-free – win-win, eh?
Can I use frozen green beans to steam cook green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. However, keep in mind that they might cook a bit faster than fresh ones. Reduce the steaming time by a minute or two and check for doneness frequently. Frozen green beans tend to be a little softer than fresh, so be extra careful not to overcook them. They're perfect for a quick, no-fuss side dish when you're in a pinch!
