Spicy Garlic Green Beans Flavorful and Easy Side Dish

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• to taste salt and black pepper
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
• to taste chopped scallions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for about 3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
2. Immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, and honey until well combined. Set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
5. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss them in the garlic oil. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and slightly blistered.
6. Pour the sauce over the green beans, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
8. Transfer the spicy garlic green beans to a serving dish. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions on top for a pop of color.