Stovetop Green Beans that are Nutritious and Remarkably Simple
Quick stovetop green beans ready in 15 min. Low-calorie side with 50% vitamin K, 3g fiber, simple seasonings. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh green beans may also be labeled as string beans or snap beans; French green beans work too, but check for doneness 1–2 minutes earlier
- 1 to 2 tablespoons butter
- Garlic powder to taste
- Onion powder to taste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a medium pot with water, add salt if desired, and place it over medium to medium-high heat until the water reaches a rolling boil.
- While the water heats, inspect the green beans and trim the ends if they look wilted, woody, or especially fibrous.
- Add the beans to the boiling water and cook for 6 to 8 minutes.
- Remove one bean carefully, cool it under running water until it is safe to handle, then taste it. If it is not tender enough, cook the beans for 1 to 2 minutes longer. Keep in mind that they will soften slightly after draining.
- Drain the beans well and return them to the warm pot.
- While the beans are still hot, add butter and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat, then serve. (See notes for an alternative version with bacon.)
Notes
Bacon Alternative:
- Chop 4-6 strips of bacon into small pieces.
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet or pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp (about 8 to 10 minutes).
- While the bacon cooks, follow the main recipe to boil the green beans.
- Once the beans are drained, add them directly to the skillet with the bacon and grease.
- Stir to combine and coat the beans in bacony flavor.
- Serve warm.