Name: Thanksgiving Green Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 large shallots, thinly sliced; 0.25 cup all-purpose flour; Vegetable oil, for frying; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Green beans often play the humble supporting role at the Thanksgiving table, but this recipe transforms them into a scene-stealer. Blanched until crisp-tender and tossed in a buttery garlic sauce, these beans get topped with crunchy fried shallots and a sprinkle of lemon zest for that bright, unexpected finish. It’s a side dish that brings color, texture, and zing.

What makes this dish extra special is its balance. The green beans retain their bite, the shallots add savory crunch, and the lemon zest cuts through with refreshing citrus. It’s fast to prep, beautiful on the plate, and easy to double for larger gatherings.

What Kind of Green Beans Should I Use?

For the best texture, go for fresh green beans, either standard or French (haricot verts). Avoid canned beans for this dish—they’ll turn mushy and won’t hold up to the crisp shallots or zesty lemon finish.

Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Green Beans

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large shallots, thinly sliced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Vegetable oil, for frying
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste

How To Make the Thanksgiving Green Beans

Step 1: Prep the Shallots

Thinly slice the shallots and toss them with flour to coat evenly. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the shallots in batches until golden and crispy, then drain them on paper towels and set aside.

Step 2: Blanch the Green Beans

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still vibrant green. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking.

Step 3: Sauté with Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the drained green beans and toss to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Transfer the beans to a serving platter. Top with crispy shallots, sprinkle with lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving and Storing Thanksgiving Green Beans

Serve these green beans immediately after sautéing to maintain their texture and vibrant color. If you’re prepping ahead, blanch the beans and store them in the fridge up to a day in advance. Reheat quickly in a skillet with butter and garlic before topping with shallots. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry. They may be a bit softer in texture.

What can I use instead of shallots?

Thinly sliced red onions are a great substitute and will still give you a crispy topping.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Swap the butter for olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep components ahead—blanch the beans and fry the shallots the day before. Just assemble and reheat before serving.

Do I need an ice bath?

Yes, the ice bath stops the beans from overcooking and helps them stay bright green.

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you’re planning your Thanksgiving spread, don’t miss out on these delicious ideas to accompany your holiday meal:

Funeral Potatoes for a cheesy, comforting side.
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables with caramelized edges.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re swapping turkey for poultry.
Giant Zucchini Parmesan for a hearty vegetarian option.
Broccoli Salad to add a fresh, crunchy contrast.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so it’s ready when you are: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

And I want to hear from you! Did you add bacon or maybe almonds? Did your shallots crisp up perfectly? Drop your tweaks, questions, and feedback in the comments below. Let’s make every Thanksgiving side shine together.

Thanksgiving Green Beans

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Thanksgiving Green Beans are sautéed in garlic butter, tossed with lemon zest, and topped with crispy shallots for the perfect holiday side. Bright, crunchy, and elegant—ready in under 20 minutes!

Ingredients

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 large shallots, thinly sliced

0.25 cup all-purpose flour

Vegetable oil, for frying

Zest of 1 lemon

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Thinly slice the shallots and toss them with flour to coat evenly. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the shallots in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender and bright green. Transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking.

3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add green beans and toss to coat. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

4. Transfer green beans to a serving platter. Top with crispy shallots, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste.