Looking for a delicious and healthy side dish option? Look no further than 4 oz (134 g) of lemon garlic green beans! These flavorful beans pack a punch at only 120 calories per serving.
But calorie count isn't the only important factor - lemon garlic green beans are also loaded with nutrients. They're a great source of vitamins C and K, and contain plenty of fiber and antioxidants.
In this article, we'll explore some tips and tricks for preparing and serving lemon garlic green beans, as well as the many health benefits they offer.
What are Lemon Garlic Green Beans?
Lemon garlic green beans are a simple and delicious side dish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. To make them, green beans are steamed or boiled until tender, then tossed with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. The result is a bright, flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Lemon garlic green beans can also be prepared in a number of other ways - we'll explore some different cooking options later in this article.
Calories in Lemon Garlic Green Beans
If you're watching your calorie intake, lemon garlic green beans are a great side dish option. A 4 oz (134 g) serving of lemon garlic green beans contains just 120 calories, making it a low-calorie addition to any meal.
Nutritional Value of Lemon Garlic Green Beans
In addition to being low in calories, lemon garlic green beans also offer a number of important nutrients. A serving of lemon garlic green beans contains about 3 grams of fiber and 24% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, as well as significant amounts of vitamin K and antioxidants. Overall, lemon garlic green beans are a great way to boost your nutrient intake while enjoying a delicious and easy-to-prepare side dish.
How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Green Beans
Preparing lemon garlic green beans is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps. To start, wash and trim the green beans, then steam or boil them until tender. While the beans are cooking, heat a few cloves of minced garlic in a small amount of olive oil over medium heat until fragrant. Once the green beans are cooked, toss them with the garlic and olive oil mixture, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Add salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.
Health Benefits of Eating Lemon Garlic Green Beans
Eating lemon garlic green beans offers a number of health benefits. As we mentioned earlier, lemon garlic green beans are a great source of important nutrients like vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They may also have anti-inflammatory properties, and have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
Different Ways to Cook Lemon Garlic Green Beans
While the basic recipe for lemon garlic green beans is delicious on its own, there are a number of other ways to prepare this versatile side dish. Try roasting the green beans in the oven with a little bit of olive oil and garlic for a crispy and flavorful twist. Or, stir-fry them with other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions for a colorful and nutritious side dish. You can also experiment with different seasonings and flavor combinations - some popular choices include adding parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, or red pepper flakes to the mix.
Side Dishes that Pair Well with Lemon Garlic Green Beans
Lemon garlic green beans are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Some classic pairings include grilled chicken or fish, roast beef or lamb, and pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara or fettuccine alfredo. You can also serve lemon garlic green beans alongside other roasted or grilled vegetables for a colorful and healthy side dish option.
Suitable Occasions to Serve Lemon Garlic Green Beans
Lemon garlic green beans are a great side dish option for a wide range of occasions. They're simple and easy to prepare, making them a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute potluck dish. At the same time, their bright and flavorful profile makes them suitable for more formal occasions like dinner parties or holiday meals.
Important Facts about Lemon Garlic Green Beans
While lemon garlic green beans are generally considered a healthy and safe food option, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, some people may be allergic to green beans or experience digestive issues like gas or bloating after eating them. Additionally, green beans are high in vitamin K, which can interfere with blood-thinning medications in some people If you have any concerns or questions about adding lemon garlic green beans to your diet, it's always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional.
Storing Lemon Garlic Green Beans
If you have leftover lemon garlic green beans, it's important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. To do so, transfer the beans to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze your lemon garlic green beans, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before transferring them to airtight containers or freezer bags. They should stay fresh for up to 6 months in the freezer.
"Lemon garlic green beans are a delicious and easy-to-prepare side dish that offers a wide range of health benefits."
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Garlic Green Beans
1. What are lemon garlic green beans?
Lemon garlic green beans are a dish typically made by sautéing fresh green beans with garlic and lemon juice. The dish is often served as a side dish and pairs well with a variety of main courses.
2. How many calories are in lemon garlic green beans?
There are 120 calories in 4 oz (134 g) of lemon garlic green beans. This serving size also contains 4 grams of protein and 10 grams of carbohydrates.
3. What are the health benefits of lemon garlic green beans?
Green beans are a good source of fiber and vitamins A, C, and K. The addition of garlic and lemon juice provides antioxidants, which may help boost immunity and promote heart health.
4. How do I make lemon garlic green beans?
To make lemon garlic green beans, start by trimming and washing fresh green beans. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the green beans and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until they are tender but still crisp. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the green beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. What are some variations of lemon garlic green beans?
There are many ways to customize lemon garlic green beans to your preferences. Some popular additions include sliced almonds, red pepper flakes, chopped bacon, or grated Parmesan cheese. You could also try roasting the green beans in the oven with garlic and lemon for a different flavor and texture.