Are you tired of the same old green bean recipe? Look no further! Green beans are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from savory stir-fries to sweet and tangy salads. In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful and creative ways to use green beans in your cooking.
From classic comfort foods like Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions to international-inspired dishes like Spicy Szechuan Green Beans, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or prefer a more subtle approach, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these unique green bean recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your dishes turn out deliciously. So grab a pen and paper (or open up your favorite recipe app), and let’s get started!
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan cheese.
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
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, toss green beans with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the green bean mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of the green beans.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and toss with red pepper flakes if using.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Green Beans
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this addictive and flavorful Spicy Szechuan Green Beans recipe, inspired by the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– Salt, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add garlic and toast for 10 seconds.
3. Add green beans, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until beans are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and Shaoxing wine. Pour over the green bean mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your Spicy Szechuan Green Beans!
Green Bean and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines tender green beans with savory mushrooms, 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, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon grated ginger for added depth
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 liquid and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the green beans, garlic, and soy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using ginger, add it now and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Green Beans with Bacon
Elevate your green beans game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of bacon with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove from heat and stir in balsamic glaze.
7. Toss roasted green beans with bacon-balsamic mixture and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Green Bean Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the crunch of green beans with the creaminess of peanut sauce. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, this recipe is quick to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled green beans and peanut sauce. Toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
A classic Thanksgiving side dish gets a delicious upgrade with the addition of crispy onions. This recipe is easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender.
3. In a separate pan, cook onion slices over medium-high heat until crispy and golden brown.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt.
5. Add cooked green beans and toasted bread cubes to the mixture; stir until well combined.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with crispy onions and French-fried onions.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Green Beans with Almonds
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing and flavorful side dish! This simple recipe combines the sweetness of green beans, the zing of lemon, and the crunch of almonds for a delightful addition to any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
3. Add the green beans and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the green bean mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Sprinkle almonds evenly over the top.
7. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green Bean and Tomato Curry
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices and fresh green beans and tomatoes. It’s an easy and healthy recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
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 and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add green beans, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 5 minutes or until beans are tender.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Glazed Green Beans with Pecans
Elevate your green beans game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring a sticky maple glaze and crunchy pecans. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite entrees.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Add green beans to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle pecans over the green beans.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until green beans are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Feta Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the tanginess of feta cheese and the crunch of green beans for a delicious and healthy side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a pan, sauté green beans with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until tender.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cooked green bean mixture, followed by crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Quinoa Salad
This vibrant salad combines the crunch of green beans with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all wrapped up in a zesty dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, green beans, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice.
5. Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Green Bean Tempura with Dipping Sauce
This Japanese-inspired snack is a delightful twist on traditional tempura, featuring crispy green beans coated in a light and airy batter, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring until smooth batter forms.
3. Dip green beans into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry battered green beans in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, whisking until smooth. Serve with tempura green beans and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (frying time)
Green Bean and Potato Gratin
This creamy gratin is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or as a standalone side dish. The combination of tender green beans, fluffy potatoes, and rich cream cheese creates a comforting and flavorful experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook green beans in boiling water until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, boil potatoes until slightly softened. Drain and layer them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a bowl, mix cream cheese with butter until smooth. Spread over the potatoes.
5. Arrange cooked green beans on top of the potato mixture.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the green beans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Corn Succotash
This classic American side dish combines the freshness of green beans and corn with a hint of sweetness from onions and garlic, all wrapped up in a savory broth. Perfect for barbecues or family gatherings, this succotash is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 5 minutes or until tender.
2. Drain the green beans and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the corn kernels, chicken broth, and cooked green beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the succotash for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean and Tofu Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy combination of crisp green beans, tender tofu, and savory stir-fry sauce. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add green beans and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
5. Return tofu to the skillet and stir-fry everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Caramelized Onion Tart
This savory tart is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors, with the caramelized onions and green beans adding depth to the flaky pastry crust. A great side dish or main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. Caramelize onions by cooking them in olive oil over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Top green beans with caramelized onions. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or rectangle.
6. Brush edges with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tbsp water) and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Green Bean and Chickpea Stew
This comforting stew is a flavorful blend of tender green beans, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, it’s also an excellent way to use up any leftover veggies you might have on hand.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the green beans, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the green beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean and Blue Cheese Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of green beans with the pungency of blue cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the green beans and immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop cooking. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled green beans, blue cheese crumbles, and parsley. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your green bean game with these 18 deliciously creative recipes! From savory to sweet, and from classic to international-inspired, this collection has something for everyone. Roast green beans with garlic and parmesan, or spice them up with Szechuan pepper and chili flakes. Try stir-frying them with mushrooms and soy sauce, or glazing them with balsamic vinegar and bacon. These unique recipes will take your green bean dishes from ordinary to extraordinary!