Garlic String Beans

Green beans are a great vegetable that can matched with almost any meal. However, when it comes to festive occasions, I like to dress them up a little bit. I think they are a little too bland served on their own when there is lamb or beef as the main course. This is when I make these delicious Garlic String Beans.

I always start by blanching the green beans because I like it when they're cooked and have a little crispy crunch. This also helps them hold up against the sauce and flavorings. I don't hold back with the garlic when I'm making the garlic sauce. I'm usually serving these on the side of a heavily flavored meal and I like the vegetable to be a good companion, not an obligatory backdrop to the rest of the dishes.

The key to getting this right is serving it right away. The hot beans absorb the flavor of the sauce and I think it all tastes a lot better when it is served warm. I go all in with the sesame oil and sesame seeds garnish. Not everyone likes them, but I think they are the perfect finishing touch.

Keep this recipe for Garlic String Beans in your back pocket for your next winter dinner party, or even for New Year's Eve. I guarantee you'll love it as much as we do!

Garlic String Beans  

This is a wonderful side dish for a festive meal, or just for a family dinner.  

Makes 2-4 servings 

Ingredients: 

• 1 lb fresh string beans, trimmed 

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil) 

• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced 

• 1 tsp soy sauce

• ½ tsp salt  

• ¼ tsp black pepper 

• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for finishing) 

• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish) 

Instructions: 

1. Blanch the beans: 

   1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. 

   2. Add the string beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. 

   3. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain again. 

2. Sauté garlic: 

   1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. 

   2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. 

3. Cook the beans: 

   1. Add the string beans to the skillet. 

   2. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until beans are tender-crisp. 

4. Season: 

   1. Add soy sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. 

   2. Drizzle with sesame oil if desired. 

5. Serve: 

   1. Transfer to a plate and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like. 

   2. Serve hot as a side dish. 

Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.