Sesame Garlic Green Beans Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• to taste salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• for garnish chopped green onions

Instructions

1. Begin by blanching the green beans. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove the beans and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking. Once cooled, drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Toss well to coat the beans in the garlic oil. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until the green beans are heated through and starting to get a little crispy.
4. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the beans. Toss everything together and sauté for another minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Finish by drizzling the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the green beans and give it one last toss to combine.
6. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.