Nothing beats the simplicity and bold flavors of a perfectly cooked steak, especially when paired with zesty lemon green beans. This garlic butter steak and lemon green beans skillet recipe is an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner or even an indulgent meal on the weekend. The combination of the rich, juicy steak and crisp, tangy green beans creates a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will become a go-to in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
For the Garlic Butter Steak:
- 2 ribeye steaks (or steak cut of choice, about 1 inch thick)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Lemon Green Beans:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Steak:
Start by preparing your steak. Take the ribeye steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the steak cook more evenly. While the steak is coming to temperature, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Blanching the Green Beans:
While the steaks are resting, fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then toss in the green beans. Blanch them for 3–4 minutes, until they turn a bright green color and are just tender. Once done, immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set them aside.
3. Searing the Steaks:
In a large cast-iron skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the steaks to the skillet and let them sear for 3–4 minutes on each side, undisturbed. This gives the steak a beautiful, caramelized crust. Depending on the thickness of the steak, adjust cooking time for your desired doneness:
- Rare: 120°F internal temperature
- Medium-Rare: 130°F internal temperature
- Medium: 140°F internal temperature
- Well Done: 160°F internal temperature
For more precise cooking, using a meat thermometer is highly recommended.
4. Adding Garlic Butter to the Steaks:
Once the steak is seared on both sides, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon it over the steaks. This basting technique enhances the flavor and ensures the steak stays juicy. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, then remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for about 5–10 minutes.
5. Preparing the Lemon Green Beans:
In the same skillet, without cleaning it, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the blanched green beans and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the green beans are heated through, squeeze the juice of one lemon over them, and sprinkle the lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra touch of brightness, you can add freshly chopped parsley as a garnish.
6. Serving the Garlic Butter Steak and Lemon Green Beans:
To serve, slice the steak against the grain into thick strips and place them on a serving platter. Arrange the lemon green beans alongside the steak. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the steak for added richness.
Enjoy this mouthwatering, restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen. The garlic butter steak is rich and tender, while the lemon green beans offer a refreshing contrast with their bright, zesty flavor. This balance makes the dish both hearty and light at the same time.
Tips for Success:
Choosing the Right Steak:
For the best results, use high-quality cuts of beef like ribeye, New York strip, or sirloin. These cuts have a good amount of marbling, which keeps them juicy and flavorful. Always aim for steaks that are at least 1 inch thick for better searing.
Letting the Steak Rest:
Allowing the steak to rest after cooking ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat. This makes the steak more tender and juicy when sliced. Aim to rest the steak for about 5–10 minutes before cutting into it.
Don’t Skip the Garlic Butter Basting:
Basting the steak with garlic butter while it finishes cooking elevates the flavor to another level. It not only imparts a rich buttery taste but also infuses the steak with aromatic thyme and garlic.
Blanching Green Beans for Crispiness:
Blanching the green beans in salted water keeps them vibrant and crisp while removing any bitterness. The ice bath immediately halts the cooking, ensuring they don’t become mushy when sautéed in the skillet.
Variations to Try:
Add Mushrooms:
For a heartier dish, add sautéed mushrooms to the skillet after cooking the green beans. Their earthy flavor pairs beautifully with both the garlic butter steak and lemon green beans.
Use Asparagus Instead of Green Beans:
Swap out green beans for asparagus for a different twist on the side. Asparagus works just as well with the lemon and garlic flavor profile.
Herb Butter Variations:
Customize the garlic butter by adding different herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley for a flavor boost.
Why This Recipe Works:
This garlic butter steak and lemon green beans skillet recipe excels because it combines simple ingredients with robust flavors. The butter-basted steak is indulgent, yet the lemon green beans keep the meal balanced and light. It’s a quick and straightforward recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste. The minimal prep time and short cooking time also make this a perfect option for busy weeknights without sacrificing a satisfying, gourmet dining experience.
FAQs:
What’s the best cut of steak for this recipe?
Ribeye or New York strip are excellent choices because of their marbling, which keeps them juicy and flavorful during cooking.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Fresh green beans are recommended for the best texture, but if using frozen, blanch them for a minute less, as they are partially cooked.
How do I know when my steak is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, and adjust according to your preference.
Can I substitute lemon juice with lime juice?
Yes, lime juice offers a tangy twist that complements the green beans and steak, adding a slightly different but delicious flavor profile.
Can I cook the steak in butter only, without oil?
Combining butter with olive oil prevents the butter from burning. Cooking with just butter may cause it to brown too quickly.
How can I make the dish more keto-friendly?
The dish is already keto-friendly as is, with no added carbs from flour or sugar. Simply enjoy it without any bread or carb-heavy sides.
Conclusion:
This Garlic Butter Steak and Lemon Green Beans Skillet recipe is a simple yet flavorful meal that brings a gourmet experience to your kitchen. The steak is perfectly seared and basted in garlic butter, while the green beans offer a light and tangy contrast with lemon juice and zest. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation steps, this recipe is ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks who want to create a delicious and satisfying dinner in no time. Serve it up for special occasions or as a weeknight treat, and you’re sure to impress!