Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.5ml) salt, or to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon (0.75ml) black pepper, or to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes, to taste (pinch)

Instructions:

  1. Wash and trim the green beans. Ensure they are all roughly the same length for even cooking.
  2. Fill a pot with about 1 inch of water. Place the steamer basket inside, ensuring the water doesn't touch the bottom of the basket. Bring the water to a boil. Add the green beans to the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 7-10 minutes, or until crisp-tender.
  3. While the green beans are steaming, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Add red pepper flakes, if using.
  4. Once steamed, remove the green beans from the steamer and transfer them to a serving bowl. Pour the lemon-garlic dressing over the beans and toss gently to coat.
  5. Serve immediately or at room temperature. Garnish with extra lemon zest, if desired.