French Style Green Beans (Haricots Verts) Recipe
Introduction
French Style Green Beans, or Haricots Verts, are a simple and elegant side dish that highlights fresh green beans with garlic and olive oil. This quick recipe brings out vibrant flavors and a tender-crisp texture perfect for any meal.

Ingredients
- 1 lb French green beans (Haricots Verts, rinsed and dried)
- 2 tbsp extra light olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Sea salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over high heat.
- Step 2: Add the green beans and reduce heat to medium-high. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, folding the beans from the bottom to the top once during cooking.
- Step 3: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4: Season with sea salt to taste and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a nuttier flavor, try using extra virgin olive oil instead of extra light olive oil.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for extra brightness and crunch.
- If you prefer softer beans, cook a few minutes longer but watch carefully to avoid sogginess.
Storage
Store any leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
What are Haricots Verts?
Haricots Verts are French green beans that are thinner and more tender than regular green beans, making them ideal for quick cooking and elegant dishes.
Can I use frozen green beans instead?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but reduce the cooking time slightly and ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
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French Style Green Beans (Haricots Verts) Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This classic French-style green beans recipe features tender haricots verts sautéed with garlic in olive oil, perfectly seasoned with sea salt. It’s a simple, elegant side dish that highlights the delicate flavor and crunch of fresh green beans, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb French green beans (Haricots Verts), rinsed and dried
- 2 tbsp extra light olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Place 2 tablespoons of extra light olive oil in a saucepan and heat it over high heat until shimmering.
- Add the green beans: Add the rinsed and dried 1 lb of French green beans to the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, lifting the beans from the bottom of the pan to the top once during cooking to ensure even sautéing.
- Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant but not burned.
- Season and serve: Remove from heat, season the green beans with sea salt to taste, toss gently, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Make sure the green beans are well dried after rinsing to prevent oil splatter.
- You can adjust the garlic quantity based on personal preference.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish.
- For a bit of extra flavor, a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can be added before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
Keywords: French green beans, Haricots Verts, sautéed green beans, garlic green beans, healthy side dish