Fill a medium saucepan with about 2 inches of water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Set a steamer basket inside so it sits above the water level.

While the water heats, snap or cut the stem ends off the green beans. Rinse them under cold water and set aside.

Place the green beans in the steamer basket and cover the pot. Steam for 4 to 5 minutes. You want them bright green and just tender when pierced with a fork, not limp. Pull them off the heat at 4 minutes if you prefer a little snap.

While the beans steam, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and just starting to bubble, add the minced garlic. Stir constantly and cook for 60 to 90 seconds until the garlic smells fragrant. Do not let it brown or sit longer than 90 seconds or it turns bitter.

Add the steamed green beans directly to the skillet. Toss them with the garlic butter using tongs until every bean is coated, about 30 seconds.

Season with salt and pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Taste one bean and adjust salt as needed. Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately.