Step 1: Wash your fresh green beans thoroughly and trim off the tough stem ends. If the beans are very long, you may cut them in half.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are vibrant green and tender-crisp. They should still have a slight bite.
Step 3: Immediately drain the green beans and plunge them into a large bowl of ice water for 1-2 minutes to stop the cooking process and preserve their bright color. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 4: In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as it can become bitter.
Step 5: Add the blanched and dried green beans to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss gently to coat the beans evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the beans to warm through and absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 7: Transfer the Garlic Lemon Butter Fresh Green Beans to a serving dish and serve hot immediately.