Sesame Garlic Green Beans (Print Version)

Tender green beans tossed in garlic and sesame oil, topped with crunchy fried onions for a savory touch.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
02 - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

→ Aromatics & Condiments

03 - 1 tbsp sesame oil
04 - 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
05 - 1 tsp rice vinegar

→ Garnishes

06 - 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
07 - 1 cup crispy fried onions

→ Optional

08 - 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
09 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

# How To Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and blanch for 2-3 minutes until vibrant green and crisp-tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain again and pat dry.
02 - Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
03 - Add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through and just starting to blister.
04 - Drizzle in the soy sauce and rice vinegar. Toss to coat and cook for another minute.
05 - Remove from heat. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, and black pepper as desired.
06 - Transfer to a serving platter and top generously with crispy fried onions just before serving to retain their crunch.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy: From prep to plate in just 25 minutes with simple, everyday techniques.
  • Big flavor, simple ingredients: Garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar do all the heavy lifting.
  • Satisfying crunch: The crispy fried onion topping transforms every bite into something truly special.
  • Vegetarian-friendly: A wholesome side that fits naturally into a wide range of menus.
  • Versatile pairing: Goes beautifully alongside grilled meats, tofu, or a bowl of steamed rice.
02 -
  • Pat the beans dry: After the ice bath, dry the green beans thoroughly so they sear rather than steam in the skillet.
  • Watch the garlic: Sauté for just 30 seconds over medium heat — burned garlic will turn the entire dish bitter.
  • Add onions last: Always top with crispy fried onions immediately before serving to preserve their signature crunch.
  • Gluten-free swap: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and verify that your crispy onions are certified gluten-free.
  • Boost the flavor: A splash of oyster sauce or a pinch of freshly grated ginger stirred in with the garlic takes the depth of flavor to the next level.
  • Allergen awareness: This dish contains soy, sesame, and wheat (from most store-bought crispy onions) — always check labels carefully.
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