Hey there, fellow foodies! Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy side dish that’s ready in just 10 minutes? Well, you’re in luck because today I’m sharing my favorite recipe for Garlic Sesame Green Beans that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need a flavorful veggie side that’s sure to impress. This dish is all about simple Asian side dishes with a burst of flavor from garlic and sesame oil. Plus, it’s one of those easy pasta recipes that you can whip up in no time—perfect for quick family dinners or 30-minute meals. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 10 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinner ideas
- Packed with flavor from garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil
- Light and healthy, yet satisfying
- Works beautifully as a side for Asian-inspired meals
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Garlic Sesame Green Beans recipe:
- 12 oz. fresh green beans (cut in half)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp olive or avocado oil
- 2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tsp. soy sauce (I use low sodium soy sauce)
- 1/2 tsp. toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- toasted sesame seeds
- salt & pepper to taste
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s walk through how to make this Garlic Sesame Green Beans recipe step by step. It’s so easy, you’ll be making it again and again!
- Add green beans and water to a skillet with a lid. Bring the water to a boil, then steam on medium heat for approximately 6-7 minutes. Don’t have the heat too high or all the water will evaporate too quickly.
- Remove the lid and continue to cook on medium heat until all the water is mostly gone from the pan (2-3 minutes).
- Add the olive/avocado oil and garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for 2 minutes, then add the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes. The green beans should be tender-crisp. Taste for any needed salt & pepper and garnish with your desired amount of toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are a few tips to ensure your Garlic Sesame Green Beans turn out perfectly every time:
- Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor. Frozen green beans will work too, but fresh is always better for this recipe.
- Adjust the level of garlic to your liking. If you’re a garlic lover, go ahead and add an extra clove or two!
- For an extra crispy texture, you can finish the green beans under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after cooking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
How to Serve
These Garlic Sesame Green Beans are incredibly versatile and can be served alongside a variety of dishes. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve them:
- As a side dish for Asian-inspired meals
- Alongside grilled meats or fish
- With a bowl of rice or noodles for a quick lunch
- As part of a larger spread with other flavorful veggie sides, like my Perfect Roasted Asparagus and Carrots or Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies
Make Ahead and Storage
While this recipe is best made fresh, you can prepare the green beans ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Once cooked, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through.
And there you have it, folks! A quick, easy, and flavorful Garlic Sesame Green Beans recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish for your next family dinner or a tasty addition to your meal prep, this recipe delivers. Don’t forget to check out my other easy veggie side dishes, like The Best Cheesy Broccoli in 15 Minutes, for more inspiration. Happy cooking! 🥦✨

Garlic Sesame Green Beans
Ingredients
- 12 oz. oz. fresh green beans cut in half
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp olive or avocado oil
- 2-3 cloves garlic cloves minced
- 2 tsp. soy sauce low sodium
- ½ tsp. toasted sesame oil
- ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes optional
- toasted sesame seeds
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add green beans and water to a skillet with a lid. Bring water to a boil, then steam on medium heat for 6-7 minutes.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking until most of the water is gone, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add olive/avocado oil and garlic to the pan. Sauté garlic for 2 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.