Italian Green Beans

I love making these Italian Green Beans when I need a quick side dish that’s packed with flavor. This recipe has become one of my regular weeknight options because it’s so simple to put together. You could easily customize it with some additional ingredients, but we enjoy its basic version too. It’s ready in just minutes, then you can focus on the rest of your meal!

What Are Italian Green Beans?

Italian green beans are regular green beans prepared with classic Italian flavors and seasonings. They’re typically cooked with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, giving them a Mediterranean twist. While traditional Italian cooking often uses fresh beans, this recipe works wonderfully with frozen Italian green beans, making it convenient for everyday cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Green Beans Recipe

This recipe is incredibly fast and requires minimal effort – I can prepare it in under 10 minutes! The combination of garlic, Italian herbs, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes creates a flavor profile that transforms ordinary beans into something special. Even people who aren’t big vegetable fans tend to enjoy these beans because they’re so flavorful. Plus, they’re healthy and complement almost any main dish.

Ingredients for Italian Green Beans

• 12 ounces frozen Italian green beans
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Italian Green Beans

1. Steam the frozen green beans in the microwave according to the package instructions.
2. While the beans are cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds, swirling the pan a couple of times.
4. Add the steamed green beans to the skillet and stir to coat them with the spice mixture.
5. Continue cooking for about 2 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the tablespoon of butter and stir until it melts completely and coats the beans.
7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Italian Green Beans Every Time

I’ve made these beans many times and learned a few tricks along the way. Don’t overcook your green beans – they should be tender but still have some bite to them. If you’re using fresh green beans instead of frozen, blanch them first in boiling water for 3-4 minutes. The butter at the end might seem optional, but it adds a silky texture and richness that really completes the dish. And fresh parsley makes a big difference in brightening up the flavors!

Serving Suggestions for Italian Green Beans

These Italian green beans pair well with almost anything! I like serving them alongside grilled chicken, roasted pork, or pan-seared fish. They’re great with pasta dishes too – try them next to your favorite lasagna or spaghetti. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve them with chicken parmesan and garlic bread. They also work well as part of a vegetable medley with roasted potatoes and carrots.

Variations to Try

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste. Add some halved cherry tomatoes during the last minute of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for extra flavor. For a heartier version, mix in some crispy bacon bits. You can substitute fresh basil for the parsley, or add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. If you don’t like spice, simply omit the red pepper flakes.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftover Italian green beans, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, but I prefer reheating them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to maintain their texture. These beans also taste good cold in salads! I don’t recommend freezing them after cooking as they tend to become mushy when thawed.

FAQs About Italian Green Beans

Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes! If using fresh beans, trim the ends and blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before following the recipe.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can make your own by combining equal parts dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.

Are these spicy?
They have a mild kick from the red pepper flakes. Reduce or omit them if you prefer no heat.

Can I make these in advance?
You can prepare them up to a day ahead and reheat when ready to serve.

What makes these “Italian” green beans?
The combination of garlic, Italian herbs, olive oil, and parsley gives them their Italian flavor profile.

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