Sesame Garlic Green Beans (Printable)

Tender green beans tossed with garlic, sesame, and crispy onions for a savory, crunchy side.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

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

→ Aromatics & Condiments

03 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
04 - 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
05 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

→ Garnishes

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

→ Optional

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

# Directions:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy: Only 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking — dinner is on the table in 25 minutes.
  • Packed with flavor: Sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, and rice vinegar create a bold, savory sauce that coats every bean.
  • Incredible texture: The combination of crisp-tender green beans and crunchy fried onions is absolutely addictive.
  • Vegetarian-friendly: A plant-based side dish that satisfies everyone at the table.
  • Versatile: Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tofu, or steamed rice.
02 -
  • Dry your beans well: After the ice bath, pat the green beans thoroughly dry so they sear and blister instead of steaming in the skillet.
  • Don't brown the garlic: Keep the heat at medium and watch the garlic carefully — 30 seconds is all it needs to become fragrant without turning bitter.
  • Add onions last: Always top with crispy fried onions just before serving to preserve their satisfying crunch.
  • Boost the flavor: A splash of oyster sauce or a pinch of freshly grated ginger added during the garlic sauté elevates the dish beautifully.
  • Allergen awareness: This dish contains soy, sesame, and wheat (in most store-bought crispy onions). Always check labels if cooking for guests with dietary restrictions.
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