sweet green beans recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
sweet green beans recipe
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The Best sweet green beans recipe

I’ve been making this sweet green beans recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this dish is one of their favorites. The combination of tender green beans, sweet brown sugar, and the crunch of toasted almonds is a perfect match for our family’s taste buds.

I often make this recipe for special occasions, like holidays and potlucks, but it’s also a regular part of our weeknight meals. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal preparation time. My family loves it when I serve this dish with a side of grilled chicken or pork chops.

The sweetness of the green beans pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the meat. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a delicious and satisfying way. I’ve even converted some of my friends who were initially skeptical about trying new foods to this recipe’s fan club!

One thing that sets this recipe apart from others is the use of brown sugar as a key ingredient. It adds a depth of flavor that you won’t find in many other green bean recipes. My kids can’t get enough of this sweet and crunchy treat.

Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a healthy snack, this sweet green beans recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Sweet Green Beans

Sweet Green Beans

4.8 from 561 votes

Tender green beans are cooked in a sweet and savory sauce with garlic and soy. This quick side dish balances natural bean flavor with a glossy, caramelized glaze.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time12 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time22 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 140 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Green Beans

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
3Drain immediately and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking, then drain again and pat dry.
4Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Add the blanched green beans in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until they begin to blister and char slightly on one side.
6Stir and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until evenly blistered.
7Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet.
8Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
9In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using, then pour the mixture over the beans.
10Toss the beans to coat evenly in the sauce and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, clinging to the beans.
11Remove from heat, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 140 kcal🧈Total Fat: 7g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

For a lower sugar version, reduce brown sugar to 1 tablespoon or use a sugar substitute. If using frozen green beans, thaw and pat dry before blanching to prevent excess water.

Watch Video Of How Sweet Green Beans Works

This sweet green beans recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a holiday dinner or just a regular weeknight meal.

The combination of tender green beans, sweet brown sugar, and crunchy toasted almonds makes it hard to resist seconds (or even thirds!)

When reheating leftovers, simply toss the cooked green beans with some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add an extra burst of flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Green Beans

What type of green beans are best for this recipe?

French green beans or haricots verts work well for this recipe because they are tender and have a nice snap to them. You can also use regular old-fashioned green beans if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans if you don’t have access to fresh ones. Just thaw them first by leaving them at room temperature for a few hours before using.

How do I toast the almonds?

To toast the almonds, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread the sliced almonds on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned and fragrant. Alternatively, you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the ingredients and storing them in separate containers in the refrigerator overnight before assembling and serving.

What if I don’t have any brown sugar?

If you don’t have any brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of granulated sugar or honey. However, keep in mind that these alternatives will change the flavor profile slightly.

Can I add some protein to make it more substantial?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, beef, or pork to make this recipe more substantial.

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