Lemon Garlic Green Beans with Herbed Rice

This delightful dish features tender green beans sautéed with garlic and finished with a splash of lemon, served alongside fluffy herbed rice. The combination of zesty and aromatic flavors creates a refreshing and satisfying meal that is both traditional and creatively elevated. Perfect for a light dinner or as a side dish, this recipe adheres to dietary requirements while ensuring a delicious experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the white rice and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
2. While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the green beans to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the remaining herbs. Serve the herbed rice alongside the lemon garlic green beans.