This vibrant and refreshing side dish combines sweet corn and tender green beans, all brought together with a rich and flavorful herb butter. It’s a perfect addition to any summer meal or a light, healthy dish to enjoy year-round. The combination of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme adds a fragrant, herby twist that elevates the flavors of this simple yet delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husked and kernels cut off
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, and thyme), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the green beans until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to cool. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot of boiling water, cook the corn kernels until tender, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the corn and green beans, tossing to coat in the butter.
- Stir in the fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations:
- Add cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese over the finished dish for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos for a bit of heat.
- Lemon zest: Enhance the freshness of the dish with a touch of lemon zest, adding a citrusy brightness.
- Nuts: Toast some slivered almonds or chopped pecans and sprinkle them over the dish for added crunch and flavor.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Store leftover corn and green beans with herb butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a small amount of butter to prevent drying out.
10 FAQs:
- Can I use frozen corn and green beans?
- Yes, frozen corn and green beans can be used. Just cook according to the package instructions and follow the rest of the recipe.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- It’s best to prepare the dish fresh, but you can prep the corn and green beans in advance and store them in the fridge, then assemble the dish when ready to serve.
- Can I use other herbs?
- Yes, feel free to use other fresh herbs like basil, dill, or tarragon to create a flavor profile you enjoy.
- How do I make the corn kernels come off easily?
- After husking the corn, use a sharp knife to slice down the sides of the cob, taking care to cut as close to the cob as possible. This will release the kernels easily.
- Can I make this dish with canned corn?
- While fresh or frozen corn is preferred for the best flavor, you can use canned corn if needed. Just be sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly.
- Can I cook this dish in advance?
- It’s best served fresh to retain the crispness of the green beans and the sweetness of the corn, but you can prepare and store the cooked vegetables separately and then combine and heat them before serving.
- What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
- You can add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for extra texture and color.
- How do I keep the green beans crisp?
- Cooking the green beans for just 3-4 minutes and then shocking them in ice water helps them retain their crispness.
- Can I add garlic to the butter?
- Yes, adding minced garlic to the butter as it melts will give the dish extra flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic by cooking it on low heat.
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- While butter provides the best flavor, margarine can be used as a substitute if needed, though it may slightly change the taste.
Conclusion:
Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter is a quick and flavorful side dish that brings out the best of fresh, in-season produce. The combination of sweet corn, tender green beans, and a rich herb-infused butter is a simple yet satisfying way to complement any main dish. With a few easy variations, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.