Are you tired of the same old ways of preparing green beans? From classic casseroles to international stir-fries, we’ve got 20 creative and delicious green bean recipes to spice up your meal routine. Whether you’re a fan of savory, spicy, sweet, or tangy flavors, there’s something for everyone on this list. In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting innovative ways to prepare this humble vegetable.
From classic comfort food dishes like Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole and Maple Glazed Green Beans with Bacon, to international-inspired recipes like Spicy Szechuan Green Bean Stir-Fry and Thai Coconut Curry Green Beans, there’s something for every taste bud. And don’t forget the fresh and healthy options, like Lemon Herb Roasted Green Beans and Green Bean and Avocado Salad.
Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole
Elevate your green bean casserole game with the addition of pungent garlic and savory parmesan cheese. This recipe is a simple yet flavorful take on the classic dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add green beans to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Arrange cooked green beans in the dish, followed by the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
7. Pour milk over the top and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Green Bean Stir-Fry
This recipe brings a bold and spicy kick to the classic green bean stir-fry, with the bold flavors of Szechuan pepper and chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite Chinese-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame seeds, or chopped scallions for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add green beans, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until green beans are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with soy sauce, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Green Beans
Elevate your vegetable game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the zesty punch of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the beans, then sprinkle with garlic, lemon juice, and rosemary.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green Bean and Almond Salad
This refreshing salad combines crunchy green beans, toasted almonds, and a tangy dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss green beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, toast almonds over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and honey.
5. Combine roasted green beans, toasted almonds, and dressing in a serving bowl. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Green Beans
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the sweetness of green beans with the creaminess of coconut curry. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add green beans; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk, curry paste, and fish sauce (if using); bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Green Beans with Goat Cheese
Add some sophistication to your side dish game with this easy and flavorful recipe. Tender green beans are smothered in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, then topped with crumbly goat cheese for a delightful contrast of textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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 15-20 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. While green beans roast, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
6. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Remove green beans from oven and toss with the warm balsamic glaze.
8. Top with crumbled goat cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Mushroom Risotto
This Italian-inspired dish combines tender green beans and earthy mushrooms with a rich and creamy risotto, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add green beans, garlic, and rice. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly, until liquid is absorbed. Repeat for 20-25 minutes or until rice is creamy.
5. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Maple Glazed Green Beans with Bacon
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the smoky richness of bacon, all tied together with a hint of maple syrup. The perfect side dish for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with bacon, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until tender.
5. While the green beans are roasting, combine maple syrup and garlic in a small bowl.
6. Remove the green beans from the oven and toss with the maple glaze.
7. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-23 minutes
Green Bean and Tomato Medley
A vibrant and flavorful medley of green beans and tomatoes, perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
6. Remove green beans from the oven and add them to the skillet with tomatoes. Toss gently to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Elevate your vegetable game with this Japanese-inspired recipe that combines the crunch of tempura with the sweetness of green beans. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce ingredients (below)
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and soda water to form batter.
2. Dip green beans into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
4. Fry green bean tempura in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot with Dipping Sauce (whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and ginger).
Cooking Time: 10-12 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, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add green beans to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stuff each pepper with the green bean mixture, followed by crumbled feta cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Green Bean and Quinoa Pilaf
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the crunch of green beans, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With its mild and slightly sweet taste, this pilaf is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and water or broth to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. While the quinoa cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the green beans to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and combine it with the green bean mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty hash combines tender green beans and sweet potatoes with a hint of garlic and a crispy texture, perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch. This flavorful dish is also easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done roasting, add them to the skillet with green beans. Stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Bean and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of fresh green beans, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes, making it a delightful addition to any meal. With its comforting aroma and flavorful broth, you’ll want to serve it again and again.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Add green beans, potatoes, corn kernels, and paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Chickpea Curry
This vibrant curry is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the creamy richness of chickpeas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in green beans and chickpeas. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until green beans are tender.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean and Caramelized Onion Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions with the crunch of fresh green beans, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Arrange green beans in a single layer on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg and fold other half over filling to form a triangle.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Bean and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of green beans with the creamy texture of avocado, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (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. Drain the green beans and immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled green beans, diced avocado, lemon juice, and olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Green Bean and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This Asian-inspired stir-fry combines the crunch of green beans with the sweetness of shrimp, all in just a few minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 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 shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and green beans to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender-crisp.
4. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Bean and Walnut Pesto Pasta
This refreshing pasta dish combines the sweetness of green beans with the earthy flavor of walnuts, all wrapped up in a vibrant pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup walnuts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine green beans, walnuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Blue Cheese Gratin
Elevate your vegetable side dish game with this rich and creamy gratin featuring blanched green beans, pungent blue cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add blue cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Combine blanched green beans, blue cheese mixture, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs in a baking dish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your green bean game with these 20 unique and delicious recipes! From classic comfort dishes like Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole, to spicy stir-fries like Spicy Szechuan Green Bean Stir-Fry, and refreshing salads like Lemon Herb Roasted Green Beans, there’s something for everyone. Discover the perfect blend of flavors in Thai Coconut Curry Green Beans or Balsamic Glazed Green Beans with Goat Cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish, these creative green bean recipes are sure to please.
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