Can I serve these green beans cold?

Yes, these green beans cold are perfect for salads, picnics, or as a chilled side dish. They also work as room temperature green beans for make-ahead meals.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. The 5 Ingredient Garlic and Cilantro Green Beans with EVOO is completely vegetarian and works well for Italian marinated green bean salad variations.

Can I make a vinegar version?

Yes, add a splash of red wine vinegar or your favorite vinegar to create tangy vinegar green beans or a zesty green bean marinade.

Can I customize this recipe for special occasions?

Definitely. Use it as a base for marinated green bean salad dressing, add extra herbs, or serve warm or chilled to suit busy weeknights or elegant dinners.

5 Ingredient Garlic and Cilantro Green Beans with EVOO Recipe 2026

Description

A quick, flavorful side dish featuring crisp green beans tossed with garlic, fresh cilantro, and extra virgin olive oil. Perfect warm, at room temperature, or chilled as part of a marinated green bean salad. Vegetarian-friendly and ready in minutes with just five simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (serves 4):

1 lb (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Blanch Green Beans
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, heat EVOO over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.

Step 3: Combine & Toss
Drain green beans from ice water and add to the skillet. Toss with garlic and olive oil for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Add Cilantro & Season
Remove from heat. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, or allow to cool for a room temperature green bean side or green beans cold salad.

Notes

Vinegar Twist: Add 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar for a tangy vinegar green beans version.
Make Ahead: Prepare up to 2 hours ahead; refrigerate and serve chilled for a refreshing salad.
Italian Flair: Toss with extra herbs and a bit more EVOO for an Italian marinated green bean salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Side Dish / Salad
Method: Blanched & Sautéed
Cuisine: American / Fusion