Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter is the ultimate bright and breezy side dish that simply bursts with seasonal flavor. Sweet corn kernels and tender green beans are tossed in a luscious, fragrant butter packed with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon. Vibrant, colorful, and incredibly simple to make, this dish belongs at every backyard meal, potluck, or holiday table all summer long. Each bite truly tastes like sunshine, elevating even the simplest spread into something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter plays a starring role, contributing freshness, crunch, or rich flavor. Simple, yes, but the magic happens when these essentials come together — the essence of summer in every forkful.
- Green Beans: Freshly trimmed green beans bring bright color, snap, and a subtle earthiness that pairs perfectly with sweet corn.
- Fresh Corn: Slicing kernels straight from the cob ensures sweetness and juiciness, though frozen corn works deliciously in a pinch.
- Unsalted Butter: The creamy, rich foundation for the herb butter that ties the vegetables together.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds grassy notes and a burst of green vibrancy to the butter.
- Fresh Basil: Basil’s sweet aroma offers an unmistakable, summery brightness in every bite.
- Fresh Chives: With a gentle onion flavor, chives bring just the right hint of zing to the mix.
- Lemon Zest: A bit of zest lifts the flavors, adding fragrant citrusy undertones.
- Lemon Juice: Just a splash gives the herb butter a fresh, tangy finish.
- Salt: Enhances sweetness and rounds out every other flavor.
- Black Pepper: A light sprinkle adds just enough warmth and bite to balance the dish.
How to Make Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Start by trimming your green beans and husking the corn, then carefully slice the sweet kernels right off the cob. Prepping the vegetables ahead lets you move smoothly through cooking, so nothing gets rushed. If you’re short on time, frozen corn can easily stand in!
Step 2: Blanch the Beans and Corn
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add the green beans and let them cook for 4–5 minutes, just enough for them to turn bright green with an irresistible crisp-tender bite. Toss in the corn kernels for the last 2 minutes so they both finish together, then drain everything quickly to preserve that lovely color and texture.
Step 3: Make the Herb Butter
While your vegetables are draining, combine the softened butter with freshly chopped parsley, basil, chives, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is creamy, green-flecked, and fragrant — it should smell like a garden in a bowl. This herby butter really is the heart and soul of Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter.
Step 4: Toss and Finish
While the green beans and corn are still warm, place them in a large bowl and immediately add your herb butter. Toss until everything is evenly, gorgeously coated. The heat from the vegetables will melt the butter just enough, infusing every kernel and bean with flavor. Serve straight away, or let it come to room temperature for an equally delicious treat.
How to Serve Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter
Garnishes
Just before serving, sprinkle a few extra ribbons of fresh basil or a pinch of chopped chives over the top. A squeeze of lemon or a light dusting of grated Parmesan brings an extra pop — and don’t shy away from a little crack of black pepper to finish!
Side Dishes
This vibrant side works beautifully alongside juicy grilled chicken, tender fish, or a simple steak. For a vegetarian-friendly feast, pair it with quinoa salad, roasted potatoes, or fresh-baked flatbread. Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter also shines at cookouts and picnics — even tucked into lunchboxes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter in a wide rustic bowl or on a large platter, garnished with whole herb sprigs for a fresh-from-the-garden look. For something a little different, spoon portions onto crostini for appetizer bites, or layer with cherry tomatoes for a vibrant salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, and you can enjoy them cold or gently warmed.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the blanched green beans and corn for up to two months. Store the herb butter separately, then toss everything together once reheated for peak flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the vegetables in a skillet over low heat until just heated through — this keeps the herbs bright and prevents the butter from separating. Alternatively, a short burst in the microwave works in a pinch; just cover the dish to keep the moisture in.
FAQs
Can I make Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter ahead of time?
Yes! You can blanch the green beans and corn a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Wait to toss with the herb butter until just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What’s the best way to cut corn off the cob without making a mess?
Stand the cob upright in a large, shallow bowl and run a sharp knife down the sides. The kernels will fall neatly into the bowl, leaving hardly any mess behind.
Can I use different herbs in the butter?
Absolutely. Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter is flexible — try tarragon, mint, or dill for different flavor twists, or use whatever fresh herbs you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Definitely! Swap the butter for your favorite plant-based alternative and use the same mix of fresh herbs and lemon — the result is just as vibrant and delicious.
How do I keep the green beans from overcooking?
Watch the clock closely and test for doneness after 4 minutes. The beans should be just tender, then quickly drained. A plunge in ice water keeps them crisp and locks in their bright color.
Final Thoughts
Summer Corn & Green Beans with Herb Butter is a celebration of everything delightful about the season — simple, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. This side dish is sure to become your go-to for entertaining and everyday meals alike. Give it a try, and let your table bask in the glow of summer’s best!
