When it comes to cooking with green beans, many of us tend to stick to traditional methods like steaming or boiling. But why not mix things up and try something new? In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 unique and flavorful green bean recipes that will take your mealtime game to the next level. From spicy Szechuan green beans to creamy green bean casserole with crispy onions, there’s a recipe on this list for everyone.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the best of garlic, parmesan, and roasted green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the green beans with the olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the green beans in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the roasted green beans and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 14-18 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Green Beans
A classic Chinese dish with a bold flavor profile, Spicy Szechuan Green Beans is a quick and easy recipe that will add some excitement to your meal routine. This spicy kick will leave you craving for more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger paste; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add green beans, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until the beans are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Green Bean and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy stir-fry that combines tender green beans and savory mushrooms with aromatics and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the green beans and cook until tender but still crisp, about 4-6 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Green Beans with Almonds
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic side dish, these balsamic glazed green beans are elevated by the crunch of toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar + 2 tablespoons honey)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
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 for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While green beans are roasting, toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
6. Remove green beans from oven and brush with balsamic glaze (or whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey).
7. Sprinkle toasted almonds over green beans and toss to combine.
8. Serve hot, garnished with minced garlic if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
This beloved Thanksgiving side dish gets a satisfying upgrade with the addition of crispy onions, adding a delightful textural contrast to the creamy green beans and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat the milk and cream of mushroom soup over medium heat, whisking until smooth.
4. Add cooked green beans to the sauce and stir to combine.
5. Arrange the green bean mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with crispy onions (see below) and sprinkle with black pepper and salt to taste.
Crispy Onions:
1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and crispy, about 10-12 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Peanut Green Bean Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the crunch of green beans with the richness of peanut sauce, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Toss green beans with 1 tablespoon peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Grill green beans for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, mix remaining peanut butter with cilantro, red bell pepper, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine grilled green beans and peanut sauce in a large bowl.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Green Beans with Feta
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing and flavorful side dish. Zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and crumbly feta come together to create a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta 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 3-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Remove the green beans from boiling water with tongs and plunge them into an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain well.
4. Add lemon juice and feta cheese to the skillet with garlic. Stir to combine.
5. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon-garlic-feta mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Bacon Bundles
These crispy bundles of green beans and bacon are a delicious addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tasty side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine green beans, bacon, and garlic.
4. Toss until the green beans are evenly coated with the bacon mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using olive oil, drizzle it over the green bean mixture.
7. Divide the mixture into 4-6 bundles, depending on desired size.
8. Place each bundle onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this addictive Japanese-inspired treat. Tender green beans coated in a light and crispy tempura batter, served with a zesty dipping sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water, stirring until batter forms.
3. Dip green beans into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Fry battered green beans in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Green Bean Tempura with Dipping Sauce!
Green Bean and Tomato Curry
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of green beans, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic spices, making it a delicious and nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in green beans, diced tomatoes, salt, and canned diced tomatoes.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until green beans are tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Green Bean Fries with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your snack game with this unique twist on traditional fries! Crisp green beans are paired with a creamy, spicy aioli for a flavorful and addictive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut green beans into fry shapes.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip green bean fries in buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture.
5. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry green beans in batches until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
7. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Potato Gratin
A comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this gratin combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the earthiness of potatoes. A simple yet satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine green beans, potatoes, butter, salt, and pepper; toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with cheddar cheese.
4. Pour in heavy cream and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Green Bean and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious main dish with this simple recipe. By filling the peppers with quinoa, green beans, and cheese, you’ll create a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
5. Stuff each pepper with cooked quinoa, green bean mixture, and shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Green Bean and Corn Succotash
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful take on the traditional succotash, featuring tender green beans and sweet corn in a creamy sauce. Perfect as a side dish for your next family gathering or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add corn kernels to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in heavy cream and cooked green beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Tofu Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the crunch of green beans with the creaminess of tofu, all in a savory and aromatic stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is ready in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
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 5 minutes.
4. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Walnut Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh green beans, toasted walnuts, and creamy pesto sauce with al dente pasta for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto Sauce:
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir in toasted walnuts and cooked green beans into the pesto sauce.
4. Combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well combined and creamy.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Caramelized Onion Tart
A savory tart that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the crunch of green beans, perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, steam green beans until tender. Slice into 1-inch pieces.
4. Place pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange green beans and caramelized onions in a pattern, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Green Bean and Chickpea Stew
This flavorful stew combines the crunch of green beans with the creaminess of chickpeas, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day. With a blend of aromatic spices and a hint of lemon, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add green beans and chickpeas. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until green beans are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, with lemon juice squeezed on top (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to greenify your meals with these 18 unique and flavorful recipes! From classic Garlic Parmesan Roasted Green Beans to spicy Szechuan Green Beans, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a variety of dishes, such as Green Bean and Mushroom Stir-Fry, Balsamic Glazed Green Beans with Almonds, and even Green Bean Fries with Spicy Aioli. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory casserole or a refreshing salad, these innovative recipes will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride. Try one, try them all – your taste buds will thank you!
