10-Minutes Garlic Butter Fried Green Beans
A fast, flavorful side dish featuring tender zucchini sautéed with garlic and brightened with fresh lemon, ready in just 10 minutes.
Equipment
- 1 10-inch stainless steel skillet
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- 1 Microplane zester
- 1 garlic press
- 1 Tight-fitting lid for skillet
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini 6-8 inches each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Begin by rinsing the zucchini under cool running water to remove any dirt or residues. Trim off the green stem end, then slice each zucchini into approximately ½-inch thick rounds. Next, cut these rounds into quarters to create evenly sized bite-sized pieces that will cook uniformly in the skillet.
- Heat the Skillet and Oil: Place a 10-inch stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to warm up for a minute or two.Once heated, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, swirling the pan gently to coat the bottom. Wait until the oil shimmers and moves fluidly, indicating it’s hot enough for sautéing.
- Sauté the Zucchini with Seasonings: Add the diced zucchini pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer for even browning. Sprinkle the zucchini evenly with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure each piece gets a chance to develop a light golden crust without becoming mushy.
- Add Garlic for Aroma and Flavor: After the zucchini has started to soften and brown, quickly add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma, being careful not to let it burn, which can create bitterness.
- Finish with Lemon and Steam: Pour the juice of one fresh lemon over the zucchini—it will sizzle and create a bright, tangy flavor. Stir well and cook for an additional minute. Immediately remove the skillet from heat, cover it tightly with a lid, and allow the zucchini to steam for five minutes, softening perfectly while locking in all the fresh flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the steaming is complete, remove the lid and sprinkle the zucchini with the freshly grated lemon zest for an aromatic citrus finish. Give the mixture a gentle toss to combine, then transfer to a serving dish. Serve warm as a delightful, healthful side that complements any meal.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm zucchini for the best texture; avoid overripe or soft ones.
- Adjust cooking time slightly if zucchini pieces are larger or smaller to prevent undercooking or mushiness.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness — don’t skip either for full flavor impact.
- Olive oil’s smoke point is important; avoid overheating to preserve flavor and nutrients.
- Leftovers reheat well but are best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain texture.
