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A close-up of vibrant Thanksgiving green beans, lightly seasoned and garnished with a lemon wedge.

Thanksgiving Green Beans in 20 Minutes (Weeknight Win)

Enjoy a classic Thanksgiving side dish in just 20 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, flavorful addition to your festive meals.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds fresh green beans ends trimmed
  • 1/4 cup cold tap water
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Rinse and trim the ends of the green beans. Cut them smaller if you prefer.
  2. Place the green beans in a large skillet. Add 1/4 cup of water. Note that the water will not cover the beans.
  3. Cover the skillet and bring the beans to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low. Simmer for 3 minutes.
  4. Remove the lid. Add the butter and salt. Continue cooking over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the water has evaporated and the beans are tender-crisp. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

This recipe was developed to help busy individuals and families enjoy a classic Thanksgiving dish without the extensive preparation time. It's designed for both novice and experienced cooks who value efficiency.

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