Charred Garlic Green Beans

I can’t be the only one; I am CONSTANTLY looking for fresh new side dishes. Our typical side dish options include baked potatoes, baked sweet potatoes, broccoli, corn, and side salads. When I’m planning dinner and I need something to serve with the main course, I’m looking for something simple, quick, and preferably green. I am very excited to introduce these delicious, garlicky green beans to my side dish arsenal. We were eating at a local restaurant called J. Alexander, and the waiter was going down the list of seasonal specials and he practically begged us to order the charred green beans in lieu of our typical mixed veggies. We took his advice and were glad we did. The green beans pack way more flavor than expected and were tender yet still had a little crisp to them. (I know those are contradictory descriptors but that was my take on the texture the first time I tried them,) I was in vegetable heaven! I had to rush home and make them myself. The first time around, I was able to find some beautiful fresh green beans at the local farmers market, but tonight, I had to settle for the organic version on sale at my grocery store.

Remember that balsamic chicken recipe I shared a while ago? That was dinner tonight minus the arugula salad + these amazing green beans. 

All you need is some olive oil, 3 cloves of garlic, minced, salt, pepper, and a really hot skillet.

I have tried them with a little diced onion and they were great but if you are looking to save some time, you won’t miss the tablespoon and a half of onion you would have added. 

1. Wash the green beans and snap off the ends.
2. Saute the garlic in the olive oil on medium high heat till fragrant.
3. Remove garlic and olive oil from the skillet; DO NOT DISCARD, just set aside. You do this to avoid burning the garlic while the green beans cook. 
4. Add green beans to the still hot pan and make sure to not mess with them too much. You want to get that brown crust on some of the sides. Leave the skillet alone for two- three minutes, then shake the pan. Do this until you get the desired color on all your green beans.
5. Remove the skillet from the fire and add back the olive oil and minced garlic. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

I love the bright green color they turn when cooked.