Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter

This vibrant and flavorful side dish brings together the sweetness of fresh corn and the crispness of green beans, all dressed in a rich herb butter. It’s the perfect summer side that pairs well with almost any main dish, making it a go-to recipe for family meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
• 1 lb green beans, trimmed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or dill)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the corn for 3 minutes.
2. Add the green beans to the pot and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Drain the vegetables and transfer them to a serving dish.
4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
5. Stir in the herbs and season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour the herb butter over the corn and green beans.
7. Toss to coat evenly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

1. Add Garlic: Stir in a minced garlic clove with the herbs for an aromatic, savory twist.
2. Cheese: Top the dish with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for extra flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the herb butter for a spicy variation.
4. Lemon Zest: For a citrusy twist, add lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the herb butter.
5. Grilled Corn: For a smokier flavor, grill the corn before adding it to the dish.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the corn and green beans in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, or warm in a pan over low heat. The herbs in the butter may lose some of their vibrancy, so it’s recommended to add fresh herbs when reheating, if desired.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn and green beans? Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but fresh corn and green beans will offer better texture and flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? It’s best to prepare this dish right before serving to preserve the freshness of the vegetables and the butter sauce.
3. Can I use margarine instead of butter? While you can use margarine, butter offers a richer, creamier taste that complements the vegetables better.
4. What other herbs can I use in the butter? You can use thyme, basil, or oregano in place of parsley, chives, or dill for different flavor profiles.
5. Can I add other vegetables to this dish? Yes! Try adding roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a more colorful and diverse vegetable medley.
6. Can I make the herb butter in advance? Yes, you can prepare the herb butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up before pouring over the vegetables.
7. Can I use a different kind of butter? You can use flavored butters, like garlic butter or lemon butter, for a different twist.
8. How do I know when the corn is cooked? The corn should be tender but still crisp. After about 3 minutes of boiling, check for doneness by piercing a kernel with a fork.
9. Can I use canned green beans? Fresh green beans will give the best texture and flavor, but you can use canned green beans if needed. Just be sure to drain them well.
10. What can I serve this dish with? This side pairs well with grilled meats, chicken, fish, or as part of a summer barbecue spread.

Conclusion

Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the freshness of seasonal vegetables. With just a few ingredients, you can create a side dish that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor. Perfect for any summer meal, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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