Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe

Sizzling Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe

Summer brings a delightful corn and green beans medley that bursts with freshness and flavor.

Crisp vegetables dance on your plate, creating a vibrant side dish perfect for warm evenings.

Local farmers’ markets overflow with these seasonal gems during peak harvest time.

Sweet kernels and tender green beans complement each other beautifully in this simple preparation.

Herb-infused butter adds a rich, luxurious touch that makes this recipe truly memorable.

Fragrant herbs like basil and thyme elevate the natural sweetness of corn and beans.

You’ll savor every colorful, buttery bite of this easy seasonal celebration.

Gather around the table and enjoy this quick, delicious summer feast that comes together in minutes.

FAQs About Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter

  • What herbs work best in this recipe?

Fresh herbs like basil, chives, parsley, and thyme are ideal for creating a vibrant herb butter that complements the sweet corn and green beans.

  • Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen corn and green beans, but adjust cooking time slightly and ensure they’re not overcooked to maintain texture and flavor.

  • Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This vegetable side dish is completely vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by substituting butter with plant-based butter or olive oil.

  • How do I know when the vegetables are perfectly cooked?

The corn and green beans should be bright green and tender-crisp. They should have a slight crunch and not appear mushy or dull in color.

Why Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Are So Refreshing

  • Savor Fresh Seasonal Goodness: Capture the vibrant flavors of summer with this colorful vegetable side dish packed with crisp corn and tender green beans bursting with natural sweetness.
  • Master Quick Cooking Technique: Learn a simple boiling method that preserves vegetables' bright colors and nutrients while ensuring perfectly cooked textures in just minutes.
  • Elevate with Herb Butter Magic: Transform ordinary vegetables into a gourmet experience by drizzling homemade herb-infused butter that adds rich, aromatic layers of flavor to every bite.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, backyard barbecues, potlucks, and summer gatherings where everyone craves a delicious, light, and nutritious vegetable side dish that appeals to all ages.

Ingredients Required for Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter

Fresh Produce:
  • Corn: Sweet summer corn that provides a delightful burst of flavor and natural sweetness.
  • Green Beans: Crisp and tender green beans that add a vibrant green color and fresh texture to the dish.
Dairy:
  • Butter: Rich and creamy butter that serves as the base for the herb-infused sauce.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the vegetables and herb butter.
  • Herbs: A mix of fresh herbs that add aromatic depth and brightness to the butter sauce.

Cooking Steps for Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter

Step 1: Boil Corn

Drop corn into a large pot of bubbling water. Let it dance and cook for a few minutes until it becomes bright and tender.

Step 2: Add Green Beans

Slide green beans into the same pot with the corn. Allow them to swim together for a short time until they become crisp and vibrant.

Step 3: Drain Vegetables

Pour the corn and green beans into a colander, letting the hot water slip away. Transfer the colorful vegetables to a beautiful serving dish.

Step 4: Create Herb Butter

Grab a small saucepan and gently melt butter over low heat. Watch it transform into a silky liquid.

Ingredients for herb butter:
  • Fresh herbs (like basil, parsley, or chives)
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Step 5: Season Butter

Sprinkle herbs, salt, and pepper into the melted butter. Stir until everything blends into a fragrant, delicious mixture.

Step 6: Coat Vegetables

Pour the herbed butter over the corn and green beans. Use a soft spatula to swirl and coat every piece with the golden, aromatic sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Bring the dish to the table while it’s steaming hot. Watch everyone’s eyes light up as they dig into this summer vegetable celebration.

Tips for Perfect Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter

  • Blanch corn and green beans quickly to maintain their vibrant colors and crisp texture, preventing overcooking.
  • Use fresh summer herbs like basil, thyme, or chives for the most aromatic and flavorful herb butter.
  • Choose tender, young green beans and sweet corn for the best taste and maximum nutritional value.
  • Season the herb butter generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the vegetables' natural sweetness.
  • Store leftover herb butter in the refrigerator for up to a week, perfect for adding instant flavor to other dishes.

Variations to Experiment with Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter

  • Mediterranean Mix: Replace herbs with oregano, basil, and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños, sprinkle chili powder, and mix in cilantro for a zesty kick.
  • Asian Fusion Blend: Incorporate sesame oil, minced ginger, and chopped green onions for an east-meets-west combination.
  • Smoky Bacon Boost: Crisp and crumble bacon pieces over the vegetables, adding a rich and savory element to the dish.

Pairing Options for Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter

  • Elevate Summer Corn Dish Pairings
  • Grill Perfectly Paired Protein: Serve alongside grilled chicken breasts or salmon for a complete summer meal that highlights the fresh vegetable flavors.
  • Match Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to complement the herb butter's delicate taste and enhance the sweet corn notes.
  • Create Rustic Side Plate: Add crusty sourdough bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the delicious herb butter and provide a satisfying textural contrast.
  • Balance Mediterranean Accent: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables to introduce a tangy, salty element that brightens the entire dish.

How to Keep Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Fresh

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place corn and green beans in the container before adding herb butter to prevent soggy texture.
  • Transfer cooled vegetables to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Label with date and contents. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Place vegetables in microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water to prevent drying. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check temperature before serving.
  • Warm vegetables in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to prevent sticking. Stir gently for 3-4 minutes until heated thoroughly.
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Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe

Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter Recipe


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4.8 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent summer corn and green beans dance together in this herbed butter symphony, creating a light, fresh side dish that sings with seasonal produce. Garden-fresh ingredients mingle with rich, melted butter, offering you a simple yet elegant taste of summer’s bounty.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Vegetables:

  • 4 ears corn, husked and cleaned
  • 1 pound (1 lb) green beans, trimmed

Butter and Herbs:

  • 4 tablespoons (4 tbsp) unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons (2 tbsp) chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or dill)

Seasonings:

  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Submerge corn into rapidly boiling water, allowing it to cook for precisely 3 minutes until vibrant and tender.
  2. Introduce green beans directly into the same boiling water, continuing to cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. Swiftly drain the vegetables using a colander, carefully transferring them to a spacious serving platter.
  4. Select a compact saucepan and gently melt butter over low, steady heat until completely liquefied.
  5. Incorporate freshly chopped herbs into the melted butter, seasoning with a delicate balance of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Generously cascade the aromatic herb-infused butter across the corn and green beans.
  7. Gently maneuver the vegetables, ensuring each kernel and bean receives a luxurious coating of herbed butter.
  8. Present the dish immediately while steaming hot, allowing the herb butter to enhance the summer vegetables’ natural flavors.

Notes

  • Blanching vegetables quickly preserves their vibrant colors, crisp texture, and maximum nutritional value.
  • Opt for fresh, seasonal corn and green beans to enhance the dish’s natural sweetness and flavor profile.
  • Experiment with different herb combinations like basil, thyme, or tarragon to customize the butter’s taste.
  • Ensure water is at a rolling boil before adding vegetables to maintain their bright green color and prevent overcooking.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 192 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 82 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 37 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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