30-Minute Marinated Green Beans
Fresh green beans are blanched until tender-crisp, then tossed hot with aromatic garlic and cilantro to infuse maximum flavor. After marinating overnight in olive oil, they're finished with bright lemon juice and tangy cider vinegar. This refreshing side dish is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a make-ahead accompaniment to grilled meats. The beans maintain their vibrant color and satisfying crunch while developing deep, herbaceous flavors that improve with time.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- ⅝ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, tender young, trimmed and washed
- salted water, to boil
- 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- 1
Place minced garlic and chopped cilantro in a large bowl and set aside
- 2
Bring salted water to a boil and plunge in green beans
- 3
Cook just until tender, about 5-10 minutes, do not overcook
- 4
Drain well and place beans back in hot pan, turn on stove burner and shake for 30 seconds to dry the beans out
- 5
Pour hot beans in the bowl with the garlic and cilantro mixture and stir briefly, then let sit untouched for ten full minutes
- 6
Add olive oil, toss and place in refrigerator overnight or for at least 4 hours
- 7
Before ready to serve, remove beans from refrigeration and let sit for 45 minutes at room temperature
- 8
Add lemon juice, vinegar and pepper
- 9
Toss, taste for seasoning and serve
Tips
Don't skip the drying step after blanching - it prevents the marinade from becoming watery and helps the flavors penetrate better.
Adding the hot beans to the garlic and cilantro mixture releases their oils for maximum flavor infusion.
Let the beans come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture balance.
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 4 days in airtight container
Best made 1 day ahead for optimal flavor development
Serve at room temperature as a side dish
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook the beans or they'll become mushy and lose their vibrant color
Don't skip the resting time at room temperature before serving or flavors will be muted
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make this without the overnight marination?
While you can serve after 4 hours minimum, overnight marination develops much deeper flavors and is highly recommended for best results.
What if I don't have fresh cilantro?
Fresh parsley works as a substitute, though it will provide a milder, different flavor profile than the bright, citrusy notes of cilantro.
How long will these keep in the refrigerator?
Properly stored in an airtight container, these marinated green beans will keep for up to 4 days and actually improve in flavor over time.