If you are searching for a fresh, flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer, look no further than this Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe. It is a delightful celebration of garden-fresh green beans and sweet corn, lightly sautéed and enveloped in a rich herb-infused butter that brings brightness and warmth to your plate. This side is not only easy to prepare but also stunningly vibrant, making it an ideal companion for grilled meats or the star dish at any summer potluck. Each bite bursts with freshness, buttery smoothness, and the lovely fragrance of fresh herbs, turning simple seasonal produce into an irresistible culinary treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that work harmoniously to create an irresistible flavor profile. Each component contributes a unique texture, aroma, or color that enhances the natural sweetness and crunch of the vegetables.
- 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed): Choose crisp, bright green beans for the best texture and vibrant color.
- 3 ears of fresh corn (kernels removed): Fresh corn adds natural sweetness and a delightful pop in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides a creamy richness to carry the herb flavors perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in sautéing and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): Parsley brightens the dish with its fresh, slightly peppery notes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped): Adds a sweet, anise-like aroma that elevates the flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Offers an earthy, savory undertone that complements the butter beautifully.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant bite that awakens the palate without overpowering the vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough heat and depth for balance.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Introduces a bright, fresh acidity to lift and lighten the herb butter.
How to Make Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your trimmed fresh green beans and blanch them for 2 to 3 minutes until they become crisp-tender. This quick cook retains their vibrant color and satisfying crunch. Immediately drain the beans and plunge them into an ice bath to halt the cooking process, preserving that perfect texture. Drain once more before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Corn
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and unsalted butter. Once the butter melts and the mixture shimmers, add the minced garlic. Sauté it just for about 30 seconds — you want the aroma to bloom without letting it brown or burn. Next, add the fresh corn kernels and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the natural sugars to caramelize slightly for a subtle depth of flavor.
Step 3: Combine Green Beans and Cook Through
Now toss in the blanched green beans and give everything a good stir. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 more minutes, just enough to warm the beans through and marry the flavors of corn, garlic, and herb butter beautifully without losing their snap.
Step 4: Finish with Herbs and Lemon
Turn off the heat and gently stir in the freshly chopped parsley, basil, thyme leaves, salt, black pepper, and the juice of half a lemon. This final flourish brings brightness and aromatic complexity that truly makes this Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe shine. Toss gently to coat all the vegetables evenly with the fragrant herb butter before serving.
How to Serve Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe
Garnishes
To make presentation pop, consider a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for some crunch. A couple of extra herb sprigs on top add a fresh, garden-like touch that invites everyone to dive in. A final zesting of lemon peel can also refresh your senses with each bite.
Side Dishes
This side dish pairs beautifully with almost any summer main course. Think grilled chicken, juicy steaks, or even fresh fish. It is also a go-to for barbecues and picnics where its freshness complements smoky, hearty flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Take it beyond the bowl by serving this vibrant dish in rustic corn husks or on a wooden board with fresh herb sprigs for an earthy touch. You might also try tossing the vegetables with a light vinaigrette and serving chilled as a summer salad, or layering them atop crusty bread for a rustic crostini.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, they keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making it a tasty option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While fresh is always best for this Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Be sure to reheat gently to avoid overcooking and losing the vegetables’ tender-crisp texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil or a little extra butter to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, preserving that fresh, vibrant flavor that makes this side so special.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen corn can easily replace fresh kernels in a pinch, and green beans can be swapped for frozen as well. Just be mindful to adjust blanching and cooking times slightly to avoid overcooking.
What other herbs can I use in the herb butter?
Feel free to get creative! Dill, chives, or tarragon all pair wonderfully with the natural sweetness of corn and green beans. Mixing in different herbs can give this Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe a whole new twist each time.
Is this dish suitable for special diets?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a versatile side dish that fits into many dietary lifestyles without any modifications.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Definitely. It tastes fantastic served warm, at room temperature, or chilled as a refreshing summer salad. The herb butter flavors hold up beautifully no matter how you serve it.
How can I make this recipe more substantial?
For a heartier take, toss in some toasted nuts, cooked quinoa, or crumbled feta. These additions add texture and protein, making the dish a fulfilling main or a more robust side.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about how simple ingredients come together in this Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe to create a dish that feels both homey and elegant. Its bright colors, fresh flavors, and buttery comfort make it an all-time favorite to enjoy on sunny days or share with friends and family. I encourage you to try it out, savor the natural goodness of summer’s bounty, and watch this recipe become a staple in your seasonal cooking repertoire.
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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 Herb Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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 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.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Corn: Add the corn kernels to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Green Beans: Stir in the blanched green beans and cook another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Finish with Herbs and Seasoning: Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious summer side dish.
Notes
- You can use frozen corn in place of fresh if needed.
- Feel free to mix in other herbs like dill or chives for variation.
- This dish also tastes great chilled as a summer salad.
