5 Ingredient Garlic and Cilantro Green Beans with EVOO

Simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor, these Garlic and Cilantro Green Beans are a quick side dish that elevates any meal. Tender green beans are sautéed with plenty of garlic, tossed with bright cilantro, and finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It’s a fresh, vibrant side that’s ready in minutes and pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by a weeknight craving for something green, healthy, and full of flavor without fuss. I had some fresh cilantro and a bag of green beans in the fridge, and after tossing them with garlic and olive oil, I realized I had stumbled upon a simple, bright side that adds a pop of color and freshness to any plate. It’s now a go-to in my kitchen when I need a quick, healthy side dish.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Green beans are a staple vegetable in many cuisines, from Southern American cooking to Mediterranean and Asian dishes. Adding garlic and olive oil is a classic flavor combination, often used in Italian and Mediterranean cooking. Cilantro adds a fresh herbal note that lifts the dish and gives it a slightly citrusy aroma. This five-ingredient recipe is a simplified, modern take on these traditional flavors.

Why You’ll Love Garlic and Cilantro Green Beans

This side dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

Versatile: Perfect with chicken, fish, or a light vegetarian meal.

Budget-Friendly: Uses only a handful of affordable ingredients.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal prep.

Customizable: Add a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or toasted nuts for variety.

Crowd-Pleasing: Fresh, garlicky, and bright — a favorite with any crowd.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Blanch beans ahead of time and finish the recipe when ready to serve.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat gently or serve cold in salads or bowls.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use the thinnest green beans: They cook quickly and stay tender-crisp.
• Mash or mince garlic well: Ensures the flavor infuses evenly.
• Don’t overcook: Aim for bright green beans with a slight bite for best texture.
• Add olive oil last: Preserves the vibrant flavor and color.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Skillet or Sauté Pan: For cooking the green beans and garlic.
Cutting Board: For chopping cilantro and trimming beans.
Knife: For finely chopping garlic and cilantro.
Spatula or Spoon: For stirring the beans as they cook.

Ingredients in Garlic and Cilantro Green Beans

1. French Green Beans: 24 ounces, fresh or frozen. Look for the thinnest stalks for tender, quick-cooking beans.
2. Garlic: 10 cloves, mashed. Adds bold, aromatic flavor to the beans.
3. Salt: 1/2 tablespoon. Enhances all the other flavors.
4. Cilantro: 1 1/2 cups packed, chopped (1 large bunch). Brings freshness and a citrusy note.
5. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2-4 tablespoons. Provides richness and ties all the flavors together.

Serving Suggestions

• Yogurt dollops for a creamy contrast.
• Fresh lemon wedges for a bright citrus pop.
• Pita bread on the side to scoop up the green beans.

Ingredient Substitutions

French Green Beans: Use regular green beans, trimmed and cut to similar length.
Cilantro: Parsley can be used for a milder herbal flavor.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Avocado or grapeseed oil works for cooking.
Garlic: Garlic powder in a pinch, though fresh is best.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cilantro: Offers a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness of olive oil and the pungency of garlic.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A high-quality EVOO enhances the taste, giving a fruity, peppery finish to the beans.

Instructions for Making Garlic and Cilantro Green Beans

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.

2. Combine Ingredients:
If using frozen beans, thaw slightly. Add green beans, salt, and optional water to the pan.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Ensure the skillet is hot before adding garlic to prevent burning.

4. Assemble the Dish:
Add mashed garlic to the beans and stir frequently to coat evenly.

5. Cook to Perfection:
Cook for 5-7 minutes, until beans are tender-crisp and garlic is fragrant.

6. Finishing Touches:
Stir in chopped cilantro and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Toss gently to combine.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with yogurt, a squeeze of lemon, or pita bread for a simple, vibrant side.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The key is achieving a balance of crisp-tender beans with soft, aromatic garlic and fresh, bright cilantro. The olive oil adds smoothness while enhancing all flavors. The result is a fresh, slightly garlicky, and herbaceous side dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Cook over medium heat to avoid burning garlic.
• Add a splash of water if beans seem dry to help steam and cook evenly.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp-tender texture.

What to Avoid

• Don’t overcook the beans — they should remain vibrant green.
• Avoid adding olive oil too early, which can dilute flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 120

Note: Approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can blanch the beans in advance and store them in the fridge. Finish cooking and add cilantro and olive oil just before serving to preserve freshness. Leftovers can be reheated gently or served cold in salads.

How to Serve Garlic and Cilantro Green Beans

These beans pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish. Serve alongside rice bowls, tacos, or with warm pita for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Mix into grain bowls with quinoa or farro.
• Toss with roasted vegetables for a hearty salad.
• Add to scrambled eggs or omelets for extra flavor.

Additional Tips

• Use a generous amount of cilantro for maximum freshness.
• Adjust garlic to taste; roasting garlic beforehand softens the flavor.
• For a spicy kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.

Make It a Showstopper

Garnish with a few whole cilantro leaves and a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Serve in a bright, shallow dish to showcase the vivid green color.

Variations to Try

• Lemon Garlic: Add lemon zest for extra brightness.
• Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle lightly toasted almonds on top for crunch.
• Chili-Lime: Add a squeeze of lime and chili flakes for heat.
• Sesame Twist: Drizzle with sesame oil and seeds for an Asian flair.
• Garlic Butter: Substitute part of the olive oil with melted butter for richness.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen beans?

Yes, just thaw slightly before cooking for even results.

Q2: Can I reduce the garlic?

Absolutely, adjust according to your taste preference.

Q3: Can I make this vegan?

Yes, omit yogurt serving suggestions and use plant-based oil.

Q4: Can I add other herbs?

Parsley or mint can be added for a different flavor.

Q5: How do I keep beans crisp-tender?

Cook over medium heat and avoid overcooking.

Q6: Can I make this ahead?

Yes, blanch beans and store separately from cilantro and olive oil.

Q7: What can I serve with these beans?

Perfect with grilled meats, pita bread, yogurt, or a squeeze of lemon.

Q8: Can I use garlic powder?

Yes, but fresh garlic is best for flavor and aroma.

Q9: Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, though fresh cilantro should be added after reheating.

Q10: How do I enhance the flavor?

Use extra virgin olive oil and fresh garlic; a little lemon juice brightens the dish.

Conclusion

These 5 Ingredient Garlic and Cilantro Green Beans with EVOO are quick, vibrant, and packed with flavor. They’re fresh, easy, and versatile, making them the perfect side for any meal. Simple ingredients, bold taste, and minimal prep — this recipe is a winner every time.

Print