Crispy Grilled Green Beans with Garlic and Lemon

To prevent beans from falling through grill grates, use a veggie basket or grill tray. This keeps them secure while allowing smoky flavor to develop.

Grilled Green Beans

By: Christie Vanover

Grilling green beans transforms them into a simple, flavorful side dish with a pleasant smoky note and crisp-tender texture. This easy recipe highlights fresh green beans tossed with olive oil, kosher salt and black pepper, then cooked directly on the grill or in a grill basket. It’s fast, versatile, and complements meats, seafood, and vegetarian mains.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 2

Ingredients

Green beans
Olive oil
Kosher salt
Black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the grill to medium-high, about 375–400°F (190–205°C).
Rinse the green beans and trim the ends.
Toss the beans with a light coating of olive oil, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Place the beans directly on the grates or in a grill basket. Grill for about 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are slightly tender with some char marks.
Remove from the grill and serve immediately. Optionally finish with a squeeze of lemon, grated Parmesan, or toasted almonds for extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 57 kcal

Carbohydrates: 8 g

Protein: 2 g

Fat: 2 g

Sodium: 1169 mg

Potassium: 239 mg

Fiber: 3 g

Sugar: 3 g

Vitamin A: 785 IU

Vitamin C: 13.9 mg

Calcium: 42 mg

Iron: 1.3 mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Tips for Perfect Grilled Green Beans

Choose fresh, firm green beans that snap when bent. Trim only the stem ends to preserve length and appearance. If beans are uneven in size, halve the thicker ones so they cook evenly. A light coating of oil prevents sticking and encourages caramelization without making them greasy.

Grilling Methods

Cook the beans directly on clean, well-oiled grates for distinct grill marks and more smoke flavor. For smaller or more delicate beans, use a perforated grill pan or vegetable basket to keep them from falling through the grates while still exposing them to heat and smoke.

Flavor Variations

Enhance the basic seasoning with simple additions: a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar brightens the dish. Toss with grated Parmesan and toasted nuts for richness and crunch. For an Asian twist, finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or red pepper flakes for heat.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled green beans pair well with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or a hearty grain bowl. They also work as part of a summer vegetable platter alongside grilled corn and bell peppers. Serve them warm or at room temperature for outdoor meals and potlucks.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in a skillet over medium heat or on the grill for a few minutes to restore some crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve texture.

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