SIMMERED GREEN BEANS WITH GARLIC, DILL PESTO & BUTTER – SIMPLE AND AROMATIC SIDE DISH

Celebrate the fresh arrival of green beans with this easy, flavorful recipe. Tender green beans are gently simmered, then finished with garlic, butter, and generous dollops of dill pesto and fresh parsley for a fragrant, elegant side.

🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes

🍳 Cook Time: 25 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 2-3

Ingredients

400 g green beans, trimmed and washed
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
2 tsp generous dill pesto
2 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
100 ml water

Instructions

Trim the ends of the green beans. Rinse well. Align beans in bundles and cut into 2-3 segments.
In a pot, combine olive oil, water, and green beans. Season with salt and black pepper.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring once halfway. Beans should be tender but still slightly al dente.
Remove lid, add crushed garlic and butter. Increase heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently, until the liquid evaporates (about 2 minutes). When you smell the nutty, sweet aroma of hot butter, remove from heat to prevent burning.
Stir in dill pesto and chopped parsley, mixing well to infuse flavors. Adjust salt to taste.
Serve immediately as a side dish with beef or pork roast.

💡 Tips

Cook beans to your preferred tenderness: al dente or softer.
Fresh dill pesto adds bright herbal notes; use generously.
Removing liquid before serving concentrates flavors and adds richness.
Serve with roasted or grilled meats for a balanced meal.

🎉 Perfect For

Elegant vegetable side dishes
Seasonal spring and summer meals
Herb-forward, light accompaniments to meat

📝 Final Thoughts

This simple green bean recipe highlights fresh produce with fragrant garlic, creamy butter, and vibrant dill pesto. It’s a delicious, healthy, and versatile side that elevates any main dish.