Sauteed French Green Beans Recipe

Name: Sauteed French Green Beans Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 3/4 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and ends removed; 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Last Updated on March 21, 2025

As someone who loves hosting gatherings, I find that side dishes can make or break a meal. One of my all-time favorites, especially during summer meals, is sautéed French green beans. These vibrant little gems of the vegetable world pair beautifully with grilled meats, pastas, and even a simple quinoa salad.

Nothing says “welcome to my table” more than a plate of fresh veggies, glistening in a bit of olive oil. You could even say, they steal the spotlight, which is quite the feat for a side dish.

Today, I’m excited to share my beloved recipe for sautéed French green beans. With minimal effort, you’ll create a dish that could easily be mistaken for something served in a gourmet restaurant—except, you’re in your own kitchen!

What Are Sautéed French Green Beans?

Sautéed French green beans, also known as haricots verts, come from a versatile variety of green beans that are often thinner and more delicate in texture compared to regular green beans.

When prepared correctly, they shine with a crisp-tender bite and are bursting with flavor. Their vibrant green color adds elegance to your table, making your meal not just delicious but visually appealing.

The Ingredients

Here’s a glance at what you’ll need to make this delightful dish:

¾ pound fresh green beans: Trimmed and ends removed
1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: For sautéing and depth of flavor
½ teaspoon garlic salt: The secret to that beautiful flavor
½ teaspoon garlic powder: To elevate the garlicky goodness
½ teaspoon onion powder: For a natural hint of sweetness
Freshly ground black pepper: A sprinkle for added zest
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika: This brings a subtle smokiness that complements the beans perfectly
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional): For a fresh pop of acidity

How to Make Sautéed French Green Beans

I promise, making these sautéed French green beans is as simple as 1-2-3. However, let’s dive deeper into the process with detailed steps that guide you to perfection!

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Start by washing your fresh, vibrant green beans under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and trim the ends. It’s a small yet essential step; nobody wants to bite into a fibrous end.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat your extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. The oil should shimmer, which indicates it’s hot enough for sautéing. A good rule of thumb: if you can see the oil moving when you tilt the pan, you’re ready to go!

Step 3: Sauté the Green Beans

Once the oil is heated, add the trimmed green beans. Toss them gently in the oil to coat. Allow them to cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. You want them to become vibrant and tender while maintaining a bit of crunch.

Step 4: Season the Beans

After the green beans have softened, sprinkle in the garlic salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure to adjust the heat to low if you notice they’re browning too quickly. A gentle sauté allows those flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally for about 2 more minutes, letting the spices create a heavenly aroma.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Lastly, remove the skillet from the heat. For an added hint of freshness, drizzle the beans with lemon juice before serving. This bright touch enhances the flavors and takes your dish over the top. Voilà! Your sautéed French green beans are ready to impress!

Notes

Here are some helpful tips that guarantee a delightful outcome:

Choose quality beans: Fresh beans make a considerable difference. Look for ones with a bright color and firm texture.
Don’t crowd the pan: Sauté in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the beans.
Adjust seasonings to your preference: Personalize the flavor to suit your taste. You can swap garlic salt for regular salt for a milder flavor.
Try adding nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts can provide a crunchy texture contrast.
Keep an eye on cooking time: Green beans can go from perfectly crisp to mushy quickly; stay alert!

Storage Tips

If you’ve got some leftovers, don’t fret! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, a quick sauté in a skillet will revive their texture wonderfully.

Nutrition Information

Sautéed French green beans are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

Calories: 70
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4.5g

These little nutritional powerhouses are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. They are especially rich in vitamin C and K.

Serving Suggestions

Looking for some inspiration on how to serve these delightful beans? Here are a few thoughtful ideas:

Pair with Grilled Chicken: The crispness of the beans contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken.
Serve alongside Pasta: They complement a light pasta dinner perfectly, adding freshness to your plate.
As part of a Mediterranean Platter: Alongside hummus and olives, they make a winning combo.
With Quinoa Salad: Toss them into a quinoa salad for extra crunch and color.
Tapas Style: They can be served as a side in Spanish-inspired meals, bringing a touch of European flair.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Sautéed French Green Beans?

If you’re in need of creative alternatives, consider the following options:

Regular Green Beans: The most direct substitute. They will retain a similar taste but could be slightly tougher.
Asparagus: Cut into bite-sized pieces, this veggie offers a great crunch and represents a delicious change.
Snap Peas: For a sweet crunch, snap peas make an exciting, sweet alternative.
Broccolini: A blend of broccoli and Chinese broccoli, broccolini gives a tender bite similar to French green beans.
Zucchini: Cut into thin strips, they offer a different flavor profile while remaining light and crunchy.

Conclusion

Sautéed French green beans are not just a side dish; they’re a canvas for creativity and flavor. With their vibrant hue and satisfying crunch, they can elevate any meal. Whether served at a backyard barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, these beans promise to impress.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful recipe. Your taste buds will thank you, and so will your guests.

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Print Recipe

Sauteed French Green Beans Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Author: Mary Siegel Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Side Dish

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 10 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 70 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Nothing says "welcome to my table" more than a plate of fresh veggies, glistening in a bit of olive oil. You could even say, they steal the spotlight, which is quite the feat for a side dish.

Ingredients

³⁄₄ pound fresh green beans, trimmed and ends removed
1 ¹⁄₂ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
¹⁄₂ teaspoon garlic salt
¹⁄₂ teaspoon garlic powder
¹⁄₂ teaspoon onion powder (instead of onion salt, for a more natural flavor)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¹⁄₄ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smokiness)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh, tangy kick)