If you are looking to brighten up your summer table with a dish that’s bursting with freshness and flavor, look no further than this Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe. It beautifully combines crisp green beans and sweet corn kernels, all enveloped in a luscious herb-infused butter that elevates the natural sweetness and adds an aromatic finish. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats or bringing it to a potluck, this vibrant side dish will quickly become a cherished favorite, perfect for celebrating the best of summer’s bounty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines in its simplicity, relying on a handful of fresh, essential ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Each component adds texture, color, or that irresistible burst of flavor that makes the dish so memorable.
- 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed): Crisp and tender, they provide a satisfying crunch and vibrant green color.
- 3 ears of fresh corn (kernels removed): Sweetness in every bite that pairs beautifully with the butter and herbs.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and carries the herb flavors throughout.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the veggies gently without overpowering their freshness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): Bright and slightly peppery, it lifts the dish with its herbal notes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped): Aromatic and sweet, infusing the butter with garden-fresh flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Adds depth with its earthy, slightly minty taste.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Provides a subtle kick of savory aroma when sautéed.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without dominating them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle peppery warmth to balance the sweetness.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: A touch of acidity that brightens the entire dish beautifully.
How to Make Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch your fresh green beans for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn bright green and are just crisp-tender. This step helps preserve their vibrant color and crunch. Quickly transfer the green beans to an ice bath to halt the cooking process, which ensures they stay perfectly firm and fresh when sautéed later.
Step 2: Prepare the Herb Butter Base
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. This quick sauté infuses the butter with a subtle, savory undertone that will marry the flavors of the veggies wonderfully.
Step 3: Sauté Corn and Green Beans
Add the fresh corn kernels to the skillet and sauté them for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing their natural sweetness to caramelize slightly. Next, gently stir in the blanched green beans and cook everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring both vegetables are well coated in the flavored butter and heated through without losing their crispness.
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Lemon
Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the chopped parsley, basil, and thyme along with salt, pepper, and the juice of half a lemon. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to combine, letting the fresh herbs and citrus brighten every bite just before serving. This gentle toss locks in freshness and adds the final pop of vibrant flavor.
How to Serve Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, sprinkle some toasted slivered almonds or a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe. A small handful of microgreens or edible flowers also create an eye-catching presentation that feels as special as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or fish, acting as a fresh, vibrant complement to the smoky, savory mains. It also stands beautifully alongside quinoa or couscous salads, adding a colorful vegetable boost to your summer meal spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this recipe warm in shallow bowls for a rustic family-style meal, or chill it and present as a cool summer salad at your next gathering. You can also layer it in clear glass jars or pretty bowls for picnic-friendly individual portions, making it both convenient and visually delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Freezing
While freezing fresh green beans and corn in a dish with herb butter is possible, it is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables may become mushy upon thawing. For the best experience, enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
To gently reheat your leftovers, warm them in a skillet over low heat with a small pat of butter to revive the flavor and moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause uneven heating and a loss of that vibrant texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn makes a fine substitute. Just thaw it beforehand and drain any excess water to keep the dish from becoming soggy.
What other herbs can I use in this recipe?
This Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe is very versatile. Feel free to swap or add herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon to customize it to your taste preferences.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian or gluten-free diet?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for both vegetarian and gluten-free diets. It uses only fresh vegetables, herbs, and dairy-based ingredients, making it a safe and delicious option for many dietary needs.
Can I make this dish ahead of time for a party?
Definitely. You can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it chilled. It also tastes wonderful served at room temperature, making it an ideal option for entertaining.
How can I add more protein to this side dish?
To boost protein, consider adding toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts, or pair the dish with a hearty main like grilled chicken, fish, or tempeh for a balanced summer meal.
Final Thoughts
This Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe is more than just a side dish — it’s a celebration of summer’s freshest ingredients and the simple joy of cooking with love. Its vibrant colors, fresh herbs, and buttery richness make every bite feel like a little moment of sunshine on your plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your summer cooking routine!
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Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter is a light, vibrant side dish that celebrates the best of seasonal produce. Fresh green beans and sweet corn are lightly sautéed and tossed in a simple herb-infused butter, making it the perfect companion to grilled meats or a summer potluck favorite.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed)
- 3 ears of fresh corn (kernels removed)
Butter & Oils
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Herbs & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking, then drain again.
- Heat Butter and Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Cook Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sauté Corn: Add the corn kernels to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
- Add Green Beans: Stir in the blanched green beans and cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season and Toss: Turn off the heat and stir in parsley, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature as a fresh, flavorful side dish.
Notes
- You can use frozen corn in place of fresh in a pinch.
- Feel free to mix in other herbs like dill or chives.
- This dish also tastes great chilled as a summer salad.
