French-Style Green Beans (Haricots Verts) Recipe

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French-Style Green Beans – Simple, Elegant, and Straight from Mom’s Sunday Table

There’s something quietly elegant about a plate of crisp-tender green beans glistening in a touch of butter and kissed with garlic. No bells and whistles, just a little care and good ingredients. These French-Style Green Beans — or “haricots verts” if you want to sound fancy — have long been a go-to in our family, especially around the holidays or for Sunday suppers that felt just a little extra special.

Growing up, my mom made these whenever we had a roast chicken or baked fish. I remember the way they sizzled in the pan with garlic and olive oil, and how she always said “don’t overcook them!” because they were meant to be tender but still have that fresh snap.

They're the kind of side dish that proves simple doesn’t mean boring. In fact, it often means better.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick & Easy – On the table in under 15 minutes.

• Elegant – Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or just when you want to feel a little French.

• Flexible – Add almonds, lemon, or even parmesan if you’re feeling fancy, or keep it classic and clean.

Mom’s Tips:

• Use Haricots Verts if You Can: They’re thinner and more tender than regular green beans — and they cook quickly without blanching.

• Make Ahead: These reheat well in a warm pan with a little splash of water or broth.

• Add Color: Toss in a few halved cherry tomatoes or a handful of fresh herbs at the end for a pop of freshness.

Recipe

French-Style Green Beans (Haricots Verts)

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 10 min | Serves: 4–6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans (thin “haricots verts” style if possible)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional but lovely)

• Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

• Juice of ½ lemon or a splash of white wine (optional for brightness)

• Toasted sliced almonds or a sprinkle of parmesan to finish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Beans: Trim the ends of your green beans. If using thicker beans, you can blanch them first in boiling salted water for 2–3 minutes, then drain and rinse in cold water.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and shallot (if using) and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute — don’t let the garlic brown.

3. Cook the Beans: Add the green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat in the garlic butter. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender but still crisp.

4. Finish: Season with salt, pepper, and a little squeeze of lemon or splash of wine for brightness. Optional: top with toasted sliced almonds or a pinch of parmesan for a lovely finish.