Get ready to elevate your green bean game! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, these 20 scrumptious green bean recipes are sure to please even the pickiest palates. From classic comfort foods to international twists and innovative vegetarian options, we’ve got a dish for every season and occasion.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of green beans, exploring the best ways to prepare these tasty veggies. Whether you like them crispy, creamy, or smothered in cheese, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, preheat that oven or skillet, and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Sautéed Green Beans
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic green beans, this recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the richness of parmesan cheese for a delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 5 minutes, or until they still retain some crunch.
2. Shock the green beans in an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the butter and stir until melted. Add the blanched green beans, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
5. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the green beans and toss to combine. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
A comforting Thanksgiving staple gets a crunchy upgrade with crispy onions adding texture and flavor to the familiar green bean casserole. This easy recipe is perfect for your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 6 slices of white bread, toasted and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté sliced onions in butter until caramelized and crispy. Set aside.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth.
5. Add cooked green beans to the soup mixture and stir to combine.
6. Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with toasted bread cubes and crispy onions.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Green Beans with Almonds
Brighten up your meals with this zesty and aromatic side dish, perfect for accompanying your favorite proteins or as a healthy snack. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the tanginess of lemon and the richness of garlic and almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for an extra kick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss green beans with garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sesame Soy Glazed Green Beans
Add a nutty twist to your green beans with this easy and flavorful recipe. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these Sesame Soy Glazed Green Beans are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the green beans to the bowl and toss to coat with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the green beans in a single layer.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy vegetarian option that combines the crispness of green beans with the earthiness of mushrooms. It’s a great side dish or main course for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the green beans and garlic; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the green beans are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the vegetables and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Green Beans
This recipe combines the crunch of green beans with the bold flavors of Szechuan pepper and chili flakes, creating a spicy and addictive snack. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for your favorite Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Szechuan peppercorns, chili flakes, and garlic; stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the flavors are fully incorporated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Green Beans
Elevate your green beans with the rich flavor of balsamic glaze and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While the green beans are roasting, mix balsamic glaze and honey in a small bowl.
6. After the green beans have roasted for 10 minutes, remove from the oven and drizzle with the balsamic-honey mixture.
7. Return to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Green Bean Salad with Feta and Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of green beans, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the juiciness of tomatoes for a light and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 3-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
2. Shock the green beans in an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled green beans, crumbled feta cheese, and diced tomatoes.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Air-Fryer Green Beans
Elevate your green beans game with this easy and mouthwatering recipe that yields crispy, flavorful results. Perfect for a quick side dish or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the green beans into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender and crispy, shaking halfway through.
5. Remove from the air fryer and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Bean and Bacon Bundles
A flavorful and visually appealing side dish that combines the best of green beans and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the green beans, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Meanwhile, lay out six pieces of parchment paper on a flat surface.
5. Divide the cooked green bean mixture among the parchment papers, leaving a 1-inch border around each bundle.
6. Top each bundle with 2-3 pieces of crispy bacon.
7. Roll up each bundle and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the green beans are tender and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Green Bean Curry with Coconut Milk
This vibrant and flavorful curry is a staple of Thai cuisine, made with crisp green beans, aromatic spices, and rich coconut milk. Serve it over steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup water or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add curry paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add green beans, coconut milk, water or broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, covered, until green beans are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Green Bean and Potato Stir-Fry
This Asian-inspired stir-fry is a perfect combination of crunchy green beans and tender potatoes, all cooked to perfection in under 20 minutes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
4. Add the green beans and soy sauce. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Cherry Tomato Skewers
Elevate your snacking game with these vibrant Green Bean and Cherry Tomato Skewers, perfect for a quick and healthy bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (adds extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a green bean and a cherry tomato onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each pair.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it evenly among the skewers.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until green beans are tender and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Green Bean and Quinoa Salad
This vibrant salad combines the crunch of green beans with the nutty flavor of quinoa, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With its mix of textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Set aside.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 4-5 minutes, then shock in an ice bath. Drain and slice into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, green beans, red bell pepper, and parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Green Bean and Potato Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender green beans, creamy potatoes, and aromatic garlic, all wrapped up in a rich and velvety broth. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and green beans in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or allow it to cool and blend in a blender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Bean and Corn Medley
This vibrant medley of green beans and corn is a perfect side dish for any meal, packed with sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the green beans and cook until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the corn kernels, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Green Bean and Corn Medley!
Garlic Butter Green Beans with Breadcrumbs
A simple yet flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the richness of garlic butter and crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a accompaniment to your favorite roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add green beans to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
4. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, until green beans are tender and breadcrumbs golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Bean and Tofu Stir-Fry
This stir-fry recipe combines the crunch of green beans with the creamy texture of tofu, all in a flavorful and easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and green beans to the pan. Cook until the green beans are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pickled Green Beans with Dill
A tangy and refreshing twist on traditional green beans, this recipe adds a burst of fresh dill flavor to the pickling process.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine green beans, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh dill.
3. If desired, add the mustard seeds and let them settle to the bottom of the jar.
4. Refrigerate until chilled, then serve.
Cooking Time: 4 hours – overnight
Green Bean and Beef Stir-Fry
This stir-fry recipe combines the savory flavors of beef and green beans with a hint of Asian-inspired spices, making for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the green beans to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with 20 delicious green bean recipes for every season! From classic garlic parmesan sautéed green beans to innovative Thai curry, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy crispy air-fried green beans, creamy potato soup, and even pickled green beans with a twist of dill. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or bold and adventurous, this collection has got you covered.