Low Carb Boston Market Green Beans Recipe

Looking to add a healthy side dish to your meals? Did you know that green beans are not only low in carbohydrates but also packed with essential nutrients?
If you've been searching for a delicious low carb green bean recipe that rivals the flavors of Boston Market, then look no further. This recipe will not only satisfy your cravings for that classic Boston Market taste, but it will also keep your carb intake in check.
Stick around to discover the savory twist that sets this recipe apart and makes it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their low carb cooking game.

Savory, Tender Green Beans

To achieve perfectly savory and tender green beans, follow these simple cooking techniques for a delectable side dish.
Start by blanching the green beans in boiling water for just a few minutes until they turn bright green, then immediately transfer them to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process and lock in their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Next, sauté the blanched green beans in a sizzling hot pan with garlic-infused olive oil, tossing them frequently until they're tender but still have a slight crunch.
Season with a pinch of sea salt and a generous grind of black pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
Finish by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish and elevate the overall taste.

• The vibrant green color and crisp texture of the blanched green beans will awaken your senses.
• The aroma of garlic-infused olive oil sizzling in the pan will make your mouth water.
• The seasoning of sea salt and black pepper will tantalize your taste buds.
• The zesty burst of fresh lemon juice will bring a refreshing and tangy twist to the dish.

Recipe

Let's talk about the key points of this low carb green beans recipe.
You'll find the list of ingredients you need to gather, along with the simple, step-by-step directions to follow.
This will help you easily prepare a delicious and healthy green bean dish.

Ingredients

You can gather all the ingredients for this low carb green beans recipe before you start cooking. Here's a list of what you'll need:

Gathering these ingredients will allow you to prepare a delicious low carb Boston Market inspired green beans dish. Once you have everything ready, the cooking process will be a breeze.

Blanching the Green Beans

Before you can create the perfect low carb green beans recipe, it's crucial to start with blanching the green beans.
First, prepare a pot of water and bring it to a boil.
Then, blanch the green beans for a few minutes until they're bright green and slightly tender.

Preparing the Water

To achieve the optimal texture and color retention in your green beans, follow these steps:

1. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Fill a large pot with water, leaving enough room for the green beans.
3. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the green beans as they blanch.
4. Place the pot on the stove over high heat and cover it with a lid.
5. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the green beans using tongs or a slotted spoon.
6. Ensure that the green beans are fully submerged in the boiling water.
7. Set a timer for 2-3 minutes to blanch the green beans, depending on the desired level of tenderness.
8. Keep a bowl of ice water ready to shock the green beans immediately after blanching to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.

   Blanching the Beans

   Once the water is at a rolling boil, carefully add the green beans using tongs or a slotted spoon, ensuring they're fully submerged. Let the beans cook for about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the beans to turn bright green and become slightly tender, but still crisp.
   Once they reach this stage, quickly remove them from the boiling water and transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and help the beans retain their vibrant color and crunch. Let them sit in the ice water for about 2 minutes, then drain them thoroughly.
   Your green beans are now blanched and ready to be used in the next step of this delicious low-carb Boston Market-inspired recipe!

   Timing and Cooling

   After blanching the green beans to achieve the perfect crisp-tender texture, the next crucial step is to carefully time and cool them to lock in their vibrant color and fresh crunch.
   Timing is key to prevent overcooking. Once the beans are plunged into the ice water bath, allow them to chill for about 3-5 minutes. This quick cooling process halts the cooking and preserves the beans' bright green color. Be sure not to leave them in the ice water for too long, as this can lead to a loss of flavor and nutrients.
   Once cooled, drain the beans thoroughly to prevent any excess water from diluting their flavor.
   The result will be perfectly blanched green beans with a delightful crunch and stunning color, ready to be used in the next steps of your low carb Boston Market green beans recipe.

   Description

   Consider using fresh green beans for this low-carb recipe to enhance the flavors and textures. Fresh green beans have a crispness and vibrant color that can elevate the overall dish.
   The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon juice brings out the natural sweetness of the green beans while adding a tangy and savory element. The green beans are tender-crisp, not mushy, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
   The garlic infuses the beans with a rich, aromatic flavor, and the butter adds a touch of indulgence without overwhelming the dish. The lemon juice brightens the flavors and brings a refreshing zing, balancing out the richness of the butter.
   This low-carb Boston Market green beans recipe offers a delightful medley of flavors that complement each other perfectly. The dish isn't only healthy and low in carbohydrates but also bursting with freshness and vibrancy.
   It's a simple yet elegant side dish that will impress your taste buds and elevate any meal.

   Nutritional Breakdown per Serving

   To better understand the nutritional value of this low-carb Boston Market green beans recipe, it's important to grasp the impact of each ingredient on your dietary intake. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving to help you make informed decisions about your meal:

   • Calories: Understanding the calorie content can help you manage your weight more effectively.
   • Carbohydrates: Monitoring your carb intake is crucial for those following a low-carb diet.
   • Protein: Ensuring an adequate protein intake is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
   • Fiber: Paying attention to the fiber content can support digestive health and help you feel fuller for longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans instead of fresh for this recipe. Frozen green beans are a convenient alternative and will work well in the dish.
Just be mindful of the cooking time, as frozen green beans may require slightly longer to cook compared to fresh ones.
Enjoy making this recipe with the ease of using frozen green beans!

How Can I Adjust the Recipe to Make It More or Less Spicy?

To make the recipe more or less spicy, adjust the amount of spices like red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce. For less heat, reduce the amount or omit these ingredients.
To turn up the heat, add more of these spices or include a pinch of chili powder. Remember, start with a small amount of additional spice and taste as you go to find the perfect level of heat for your preference.

Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Vegan or Dairy-Free?

You can easily make the recipe vegan or dairy-free by simply replacing any dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives.
For example, use vegan butter or olive oil instead of regular butter, and substitute any milk or cream with non-dairy options like almond milk or coconut milk.
These swaps will maintain the flavor and texture of the dish while making it suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets.

Can I Prepare the Green Beans Ahead of Time and Reheat Them Later?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the green beans ahead of time and reheat them later. It's a great way to save time and still enjoy a delicious dish. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container in the fridge.
When you're ready to reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet or microwave until they're heated through. This way, you can have a tasty, low carb side dish ready to go when you need it.

Are There Any Alternative Seasonings I Can Use to Change up the Flavor of the Dish?

You can definitely switch up the flavor of the dish by trying out different seasonings. Consider adding some garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a savory twist.
If you're looking for a touch of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find the perfect flavor that suits your taste buds.