The Ultimate Guide to Gaby’s Spicy Garlic Green Beans

As a long-time fan of What’s Gaby Cooking, I was thrilled to discover Gaby’s incredible recipe for Spicy Garlic Green Beans. This vegetable side has become a staple in my household for good reason – it’s healthy easy to make, and incredibly delicious!

In this comprehensive guide I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make these sensational spicy garlic green beans at home. From why this recipe is so special to step-by-step cooking instructions and storage tips consider this your one-stop-shop for creating this mouthwatering side. Let’s dive in!

Why Gaby’s Green Beans Are So Special

Gaby Dalkin is renowned for her incredible recipes that are both scrumptious and wholesome. Her spicy garlic green beans exemplify that perfectly. Here’s why this veggie side really stands out:

• Packed with flavor – The combination of garlic, shallots, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes gives these green beans tons of aromatic flavor in every bite.

• A healthy side dish – Green beans are low in calories and high in vitamins A, C, and K. This recipe boosts their nutrition without adding unhealthy extras.

• Kid-friendly and versatile – With mild spice, these beans make a great side for picky eaters. They also pair well with a variety of main dishes

• Simple yet impressive – Using just a few ingredients, these green beans look and taste gourmet. But they’re so easy to whip up!

• Customizable spice level – Add more or less red pepper to control the heat level. Satisfy all palates!

• Delicious hot or cold – You can serve them immediately or enjoy leftovers chilled. Their flavor shines either way.

With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why these green beans are so special. Now let’s look at how to make them at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gaby’s spicy garlic green beans call for just a few simple ingredients:

• 1 pound green beans, trimmed – Haricot vert beans are ideal, but regular green beans work too.

• 2 Tbsp olive oil – For cooking the aromatics and green beans.

• 6 cloves garlic, chopped – Minced garlic gives outstanding flavor.

• 1 shallot, thinly sliced – Shallots add a lovely mild onion-y taste.

• 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes – Control the spice level to your liking.

• Flaky salt and lemon zest – For bright, fresh finishing flavor.

That’s it! The simplicity of the ingredients belies how much flavor these green beans deliver.

You can make substitutions as needed. Regular onions can replace shallots. Peeled garlic cloves or garlic powder provides garlic taste if you don’t have minced garlic. Other veggie oils like avocado oil can sub for olive oil. Get creative and use what you have on hand!

Step-By-Step Cooking Guide

With just two easy cooking steps, these spicy garlic green beans come together in a flash. Here’s how:

Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly softened but still crisp.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.

Blanching first cooks the beans partially so they stay crunchy after sauteing. Shocking in cold water preserves their vibrancy and snaps.

Step 2: Saute the Beans and Aromatics

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add blanched green beans. Saute 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through.
• Remove from heat. Season with salt and lemon zest.

The quick saute infuses the green beans with tons of flavor from the garlic, shallots, and spice. And they retain a perfect crisp-tender bite.

That’s all it takes! For even more flavor, you can also add ingredients like sesame oil, soy sauce, grated Parmesan, or fresh herbs. The possibilities are endless.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

These versatile green beans pair well with an array of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• Thanksgiving dinner side dish
• Weeknight dinner accompaniment
• Backyard BBQ platter
• Holiday potluck contribution
• Low carb meal addition

For the best flavor and texture, serve the green beans immediately after cooking. But you can also store leftovers:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop in a skillet, adding oil or water to prevent sticking.

The beans hold up well for several days. A brief re-heat restores their yummy garlic flavor.

Extra Tips for Success

Follow these tips for getting the most out of Gaby’s famous green beans recipe:

• Trim the ends off the beans for even cooking.
• Undercook the beans slightly when blanching so they don’t get mushy.
• Use minced garlic for the best distribution of flavor.
• Control the kick with more or less red pepper flakes.
• Toss the cooked beans with lemon juice and zest.
• Scale the recipe up or down depending on how many you’re serving.

With this know-how in your back pocket, you’re guaranteed a winning side of spicy garlic green beans every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Gaby’s sensational green beans:

Can you use frozen green beans?

Absolutely! Thaw them first, then follow the recipe as directed. The blanching step may be shorter since they’re partially cooked.

What if I don’t have shallots?

Regular yellow, white, or red onions are a fine substitute. Use half the amount called for in the recipe.

Do the beans have to be spicy?

Not at all! For mild green beans, simply leave out the red pepper flakes entirely.

Can I prep the beans in advance?

You can trim and blanch the green beans up to 2 days ahead. Then store chilled until ready to finish cooking.

How long do the cooked beans keep?

They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.

Got another question? Feel free to reach out – I’m happy to help troubleshoot!

More Delicious Green Bean Recipes to Try

Once you’ve mastered Gaby’s spicy garlic version, try more tasty ways to cook green beans:

• Garlic Parmesan Green Beans – Toss blanched beans with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper and shredded Parmesan.

• Green Bean Salad – Make a veggie salad with green beans, tomatoes, onion and a red wine vinaigrette.

• Roasted Green Beans – Toss raw green beans with olive oil and roast at 400°F until browned and crispy.

• Green Bean Casserole – The classic Thanksgiving side made with creamy mushroom soup and fried onions.

• Pesto Green Beans – Blanch beans and toss with pesto sauce for rich herby flavor.

The options for delicious green bean dishes are endless! What will you cook up next?

Satisfy Your Green Bean Cravings with Gaby’s Recipe

Gaby’s spicy garlic green beans truly are a cut above your average vegetable side dish. With outstanding flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility, this is a recipe you’ll make again and again.

Use this comprehensive guide to master Gaby’s technique for green beans perfection. With the right ingredients, simple two-step cooking process, and handy storage and serving suggestions, success is guaranteed.