green beans and asparagus recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best green beans and asparagus recipe

I’ve been making this green beans and asparagus recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The combination of the tender green beans and the slightly bitter asparagus is a perfect balance of flavors.

I love that this recipe is easy to make and can be served as a side dish or added to a variety of meals. My kids especially love it when I serve it with a bit of garlic butter on top.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it at a dinner party or make it for a quick weeknight meal. Plus, the health benefits of eating green beans and asparagus are numerous – they’re low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals.

As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is quick to prepare and can be made in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a tasty addition to your favorite meals, this green beans and asparagus recipe is a great choice.

I’ve even started serving it at family gatherings and potlucks, where it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The key to making this recipe work is to use fresh ingredients – don’t be afraid to splurge on high-quality green beans and asparagus if you can afford it.

And don’t overcook them – you want them to retain their crunch and flavor.

Garlic Lemon Green Beans and Asparagus

4.6 from 1931 votes

A vibrant and healthy side dish featuring crisp-tender green beans and asparagus tossed in a bright garlic lemon sauce. This simple recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts, offering a burst of fresh flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time12 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time22 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Vegetables

1 pound green beans, trimmed
1 pound asparagus, woody ends snapped off
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Finish

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the green beans and blanch for 2 minutes, until they turn bright green and are slightly tender.
3Using a slotted spoon, transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
4Let them sit for 1 minute, then drain and set aside.
5In the same boiling water, add the asparagus spears and blanch for 1 minute, until they become vibrant green and crisp-tender.
6Transfer them to the ice water bath for 1 minute, then drain well.
7Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
8Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
9Add the blanched green beans and asparagus to the skillet.
10Season with salt and black pepper.
11Saute for 3 to 4 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the vegetables are heated through and lightly charred in spots.
12Remove the skillet from the heat.
13Drizzle the lemon juice over the vegetables and sprinkle with lemon zest.
14Toss to coat evenly.
15If using, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or saute pan
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Tongs or spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 7g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 300mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For extra crunch, you can add a handful of toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts before serving. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Watch Video Of How Garlic Lemon Green Beans and Asparagus Works

This green beans and asparagus recipe is always a good idea because it is versatile and easy to make. It works perfectly for family gatherings like Thanksgiving or a casual backyard barbecue.

I love that I can serve it warm or at room temperature without losing any quality. For storage, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350 degree oven for about 5 minutes. You can also add them to a salad or toss with pasta for a quick meal.

This dish is a reliable go to that never disappoints.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Lemon Green Beans and Asparagus

What is the best way to cook green beans?

To cook green beans, simply steam them until they’re tender but still crisp. You can also sauté them in a bit of olive oil for added flavor.

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

While frozen green beans are convenient, they often lack the texture and flavor of fresh green beans. If you do choose to use frozen, just thaw them first and then steam or sauté them as usual.

How do I prevent asparagus from becoming mushy?

To prevent asparagus from becoming mushy, simply blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before serving. This will help preserve its texture and flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely – feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this recipe! Some options include bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetables you choose to add.

Similar Posts