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Christmas Garlic Butter Green Beans - Bright, Buttery, and Festive

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • Fresh green beans (about 1 1/2 pounds), trimmed
  • Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
  • Olive oil (1 tablespoon, for flavor and to prevent the butter from browning too quickly)
  • Garlic (3–4 cloves), finely minced
  • Lemon (zest and juice of 1/2 lemon)
  • Salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • Black pepper, freshly ground
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Sliced almonds or toasted pecans (optional, for crunch)
  • Dried cranberries or pomegranate arils (optional, for color and sweetness)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Trim the beans: Snap or cut off the tough ends. Keep them whole for a nice presentation, or cut them in half if you prefer bite-sized pieces.
  • Boil water and set up an ice bath: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Set a bowl of ice water nearby. The salt seasons the beans from the inside out and helps keep that bright green color.
  • Blanch the beans: Add the beans to the boiling water and cook for 3–4 minutes, until they turn vibrant green and are crisp-tender. You want them slightly underdone since they’ll finish in the pan.
  • Shock them cold: Transfer the beans to the ice bath to stop the cooking. Let them chill for 1–2 minutes, then drain well and pat dry. Dry beans sear better and won’t water down the sauce.
  • Make the garlic butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter melts and starts to foam, add the minced garlic. Cook for 30–60 seconds, stirring, until fragrant. Don’t let it brown.
  • Sauté the beans: Add the dried green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through and glossy.
  • Season and brighten: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like. Zest about half the lemon directly into the pan and squeeze in a little juice. Toss again. Taste and adjust.
  • Finish with crunch and color: Off the heat, fold in toasted almonds or pecans for texture. Sprinkle with dried cranberries or pomegranate arils for a festive look. Add chopped parsley or chives.
  • Serve warm: Transfer to a warm platter and serve immediately. If your kitchen is busy, keep them on the stove over very low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.