Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • ¼ teaspoon (1 g) red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon (15 g) toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse and trim the ends of the green beans.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Once the oil is shimmering, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  4. Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat in oil and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they brighten in color and are tender-crisp (approximately 4-5 minutes).
  5. Stir in lemon zest, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes, if using. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.