Restaurant Style Garlic Green Beans Recipe

There’s nothing quite like elevating a simple side dish to star status, and I discovered that dreaming up this garlicky sesame green bean recipe does exactly that!

I adore crafting recipes that bring the restaurant experience right into our kitchens, and my Restaurant Style Garlic Green Beans do just that. Using fresh green beans and olive oil as a base, I think the minced garlic delivers an irresistible aroma, while a dash of soy sauce brings a savory flair.

I love enhancing the dish with a hint of sesame oil and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, offering a delightful crunch and rich depth that elevate this simple vegetable into a nutritious, flavorful delight.

Restaurant Style Garlic Green Beans Recipe Ingredients

• Fresh Green Beans: High in fiber and vitamins, they support digestion and health.
• Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats, promotes heart health and adds smooth richness.
• Garlic: Offers bold flavor and antioxidants, enhancing immune health.
• Soy Sauce: Provides umami depth and savory richness to the dish.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty aroma and is a source of healthy fats.

Restaurant Style Garlic Green Beans Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

How to Make this Restaurant Style Garlic Green Beans Recipe

1. Rinse and trim the green beans, removing any stems or tough ends.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for about 2-3 minutes, until they are bright green and crisp-tender.

3. Immediately drain the green beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set aside.

4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

6. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil.

7. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper over the green beans, stirring well to combine.

8. Pour in the soy sauce and water, stirring to coat the green beans evenly.

9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through and tender.

10. If desired, drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Restaurant Style Garlic Green Beans Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Large bowl
3. Colander
4. Skillet
5. Wooden spoon or spatula
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.
• Q: Is it necessary to use sesame oil in the recipe? A: No, sesame oil is optional, but it adds a nice nutty flavor to the dish.
• Q: How do I make the green beans less crunchy? A: You can blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing them to achieve a softer texture.
• Q: What can I use instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version? A: You can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
• Q: How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator? A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe? A: Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Restaurant Style Garlic Green Beans Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Substitute olive oil with avocado oil or vegetable oil for a milder flavor.
• Use shallots or leeks as an alternative to garlic for a subtler taste.
• Replace soy sauce with tamari sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Instead of black pepper, try using white pepper for a different spice note.
• Swap sesame oil with peanut oil or walnut oil for a nutty flavor, if desired.

Pro Tips

1. Upgrade the Blanching Process Add a pinch of baking soda to the boiling water when blanching the green beans. This helps preserve their bright green color by keeping the chlorophyll intact.

2. Garlic Infusion Technique Consider slicing the garlic instead of mincing for a slightly milder garlic flavor. Sauté the garlic slices in olive oil slowly to infuse the oil with garlic essence without burning the garlic.

3. Soy Sauce Variation Try using low-sodium soy sauce if you’re concerned about the dish being too salty, or experiment with a combination of soy sauce and a splash of rice vinegar for added depth of flavor.

4. Enhance with Aromatics Add a few thin slices of fresh ginger to the garlic in the skillet for an additional layer of flavor that complements the sesame and soy sauce.

5. Kick of Heat If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce when you add the soy sauce for a subtle heat that will balance well with the other flavors.