Green beans, a staple in many kitchens, offer an impressive array of benefits and uses. Their adaptability is one of their greatest strengths, as they can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways – raw, cooked by boiling or steaming, stir-fried with savory sauces, roasted to perfection, or baked with herbs for added depth. Moreover, this nutritious vegetable boasts an impressive arsenal of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, making it an ideal addition to any health-conscious diet. To unlock the full potential of green beans, we’ve curated a selection of 36 easy and delectable recipes that showcase their versatility and flavor.
36 Easy Green Bean Recipes
Green Bean Salad
Beat the heat with a revitalizing salad that’s perfect for a sultry summer afternoon. Combine blanched green beans with sliced cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and a tangy homemade lemon vinaigrette. Finish it off with some chopped fresh parsley for an explosion of flavor.
Potato and Green Bean Skillet
Savory flavors abound in this skillet delight, where tender potatoes harmonize with crunchy green beans, both golden brown and perfectly cooked in one convenient pan. This effortless yet versatile recipe is a satisfying vegetarian main course or side dish, ideal for Meatless Monday or any chaotic weeknight when a quick and delicious meal is needed.
Spicy Green Beans
For those who crave a little spice in their lives, this recipe delivers. Take a flavorful journey by sautéing green beans with pungent garlic and a kick of chili flakes until they’re tender to the bite. Then, elevate the dish by combining it with savory soy sauce and nutty sesame oil. To add a burst of freshness, toss in some chopped scallions for a vibrant pop of color.
Green Bean Casserole
This timeless recipe never fails to impress. Its simplicity and flavor combination make it a staple in many households. To create this crowd-pleaser, start by combining blanched green beans with cream of mushroom soup. Next, sprinkle crispy fried onions on top for added texture. Finally, bake the dish until it’s golden brown and bubbly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Green Bean Stir Fry
This delectable recipe is characterized by its speed, simplicity, and abundance of flavors. By sautéing sliced chicken or tofu with aromatic garlic and ginger until fully cooked, followed by the addition of green beans, mushrooms, and a rich homemade sauce crafted from soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a hint of honey, you’ll be indulging in a culinary delight that’s sure to satisfy.
Garlic Roasted Green Beans
Roasting green beans is a fantastic way to prepare them for meal prep or as a healthy side dish. To get started, toss 1-2 cups of trimmed green beans with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 clove of minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until they’re evenly coated. Then, spread the bean mixture out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the beans are tender and lightly browned. You can also add other seasonings like lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or crushed nuts to give them extra flavor.
Green Beans with Bacon
Transforming ordinary green beans into a culinary masterpiece can be achieved by incorporating the savory essence of bacon. The key lies in sautéing crispy chopped bacon before adding the green beans to the pan. Allow them to cook until tender, then season with a pinch of salt, a few grinds of pepper, and a burst of citrus flavor from a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This harmonious union elevates the humble green bean to new heights, making it an ideal addition to any meal.
French Green Beans with Shallots
Indulge in the harmonious union of French green beans and caramelized shallots, where simplicity meets elegance. The tender beans seamlessly blend with the deep, sweet flavors of the shallots, crafting a delightful combination that’s both satisfying and refreshing. This effortless side dish is not only quick to prepare but also teeming with nutritious goodness, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal.
Pickled Green Beans
For a tangy twist on preserving green beans, try this innovative method: layer blanched green beans with pungent garlic, fresh dill, and a spicy kick from red pepper flakes within canning jars. Next, pour over a scorching hot vinegar mixture that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Allow the concoction to cool before transferring it to the fridge, where it will keep for up to 30 days.
Green Bean Fries
Ditch traditional French fries for a nutritious twist! Simply preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by coating green beans with panko breadcrumbs. Then, place them on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach a crispy and golden perfection.
Sesame Roasted Green Beans
Paired beautifully with any Asian-inspired meal, this straightforward yet delectable side dish is sure to please. By roasting the ingredients until they’re both crispy and tender, a harmonious blend of flavors emerges. The combination of sesame oil, garlic, and soy sauce creates a savory symphony that’s further elevated by the nutty addition of sesame seeds. This humble side dish is surprisingly bursting with umami flavor.
Chicken and Green Beans
Indulge in a nutritious and mouthwatering snack with the unbeatable duo of chicken and green beans. This timeless pairing is a match made in heaven, offering a trifecta of benefits: it’s quick to prepare, easy on the palate, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a speedy solution for a weeknight dinner or a revitalizing pick-me-up for lunch, this harmonious combination has got you covered.
Green Bean, Potato & Corn Salad
Experience the vibrant flavors of this Green Bean, Potato & Corn combination that’s anything but ordinary. A symphony of textures and tastes, with snappy green beans, juicy corn, and creamy potatoes harmonizing in a zesty vinaigrette dressing. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, packing a picnic, or simply looking to add some excitement to your plate, this easy-to-prepare dish is sure to delight.
Green Bean and Quinoa Salad
Savor the flavors of a well-rounded meal with this delightful salad, perfect for both lunch and dinner. Begin by cooking quinoa according to package guidelines. Next, combine it with blanched green beans, diced red bell pepper, and chopped kale, then elevate the dish with a tangy homemade lemon tahini dressing.
Green Beans with Almonds
Elevate your meals with a deceptively simple yet flavorful side dish that’s sure to impress. Toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch while the subtle sweetness of sautéed green beans balances out the savory aroma of garlic, making this recipe a game-changer for any meal. To bring it all together, simply toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet until golden brown, then combine them with blanched green beans and a hint of garlic to create a harmonious medley that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Kickstart your day with a delightful twist on the classic morning routine. Roasted parmesan delights, transformed into crispy masterpieces, melt and golden-finish their way into your heart. The symphony of flavors unfolds, accompanied by a satisfying crunch from the healthiest of greens. A taste sensation so divine, you’ll be hard-pressed to resist the allure – they’ll vanish faster than you can exclaim ‘cheese!’
Maple Mustard Green Beans with Pomegranate and Goat Cheese
Vibrant green beans take center stage as sweet and savory notes harmonize in a delightful culinary symphony. Crisp blanched beans provide the perfect canvas for a tangy maple mustard vinaigrette to shine. The addition of juicy pomegranate seeds and creamy goat cheese adds satisfying texture and depth, elevating this side dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Green Bean Rice Bowl
Imagine a harmonious union of textures and flavors in a single bowl – the humble green bean rice bowl is just that. A symphony of ingredients combines to create a healthy, fulfilling, and scrumptious dish. Fluffy rice provides a comforting base, while crisp green beans add a satisfying crunch. The variety of toppings allows for endless customization, making this meal both adaptable and repeatable.
Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
A harmonious union of crispy bacon and tender green beans makes for an unbeatable side dish that’s impossible to resist. With the perfect balance of salty and savory flavors, these bite-sized bundles are surprisingly easy to prepare and consistently disappear quickly. Whether oven-roasted or pan-fried, they have a remarkable ability to elevate even the most mundane meal into a celebratory and indulgent affair.
Green Bean and Ham Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth of a hearty soup that’s ideal for cozying up on chilly days. Begin by slow-cooking ham hocks until they’re tender, then shred them and combine with sautéed aromatics like onion, carrot, and celery. Next, add blanched green beans to the pot, followed by rich chicken broth. Let everything simmer together until the vegetables are tender, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Cheesy Roasted Green Beans
The humble green bean gets a decadent makeover with the addition of creamy cheese! By roasting them to a perfect tender-crunch, then smothering them in a rich blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this side dish transcends its simple roots and enters the realm of comforting indulgence.
Green Bean and Sesame Salad
Indulge in the harmonious fusion of Asian flavors with this delectable salad, featuring tender blanched green beans, crunchy sesame seeds, and a rich dressing infused with sesame oil and soy sauce. This side dish is a masterclass in balancing contrasting textures and tastes, resulting in a delightful accompaniment to any meal.
Green Bean and Cashew Stir Fry
To indulge in a deliciously swift and effortless stir-fry, combine the freshness of green beans with the nutty flavor of cashews, complemented by the protein-packed presence of tofu or chicken. Take it to the next level by incorporating a rich and savory stir-fry sauce, allowing its bold flavors to mingle with the other ingredients. Serve this mouthwatering concoction atop a bed of fluffy rice or noodles for a meal that’s sure to leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Green Bean and Carrot Slaw
Indulge in the delightful combination of textures and flavors brought together by a refreshing slaw, featuring thin strips of crisp green beans and vibrant carrots. This harmonious blend is elevated to new heights when paired with a tangy vinaigrette, creating a captivating side dish that’s sure to please.
Green Bean and Caramelized Onion Tart
Indulge in the refined flavors of a luxurious tart, crafted with buttery puff pastry, sweetly caramelized onions, and tender blanched green beans. This show-stopping dish is ideal for elevating your next brunch or special gathering to new heights.
Green Bean and Bacon Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of this satisfying pasta dish, where tender green beans are perfectly balanced by crispy bacon and a velvety Alfredo sauce. This comforting meal is sure to hit the spot.
Green Bean and Red Potato Salad
Elevate your potato salad game by incorporating blanched green beans, adding a burst of freshness to this timeless classic. The combination of tender potatoes and crunchy green beans is elevated even further by a drizzle of tangy mayonnaise-based dressing, resulting in a delightful side dish that’s sure to please.
Green Bean and Tomato Curry
Savory and vibrant, this vegetarian curry is a delightful blend of green beans, tangy tomatoes, and the warmth of aromatic spices. As a comforting and satisfying meal option, serve it over fluffy rice or pair it with crispy naan bread for a truly memorable dining experience.
Green Bean and Blue Cheese Gratin
Indulge in the delectable fusion of flavors and textures as this green bean gratin, boasting a harmonious blend of crunchy breadcrumb topping, pungent blue cheese, creamy sauce, and tender green beans, satisfies your palate with its rich and savory essence, making it an ideal centerpiece for a memorable dining experience.
Green Bean and Turkey Stir Fry
Turn your leftover turkey into a mouth-watering stir-fry by combining it with crisp green beans, sweet bell peppers, and a rich, homemade stir-fry sauce. Simply sauté the ingredients together for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal.
Green Bean and Cornbread Casserole
In the heart of Southern cuisine, a harmonious union of flavors and textures is often achieved through the combination of fresh vegetables and rich, buttery cornbread. A prime example of this culinary marriage is a casserole that brings together the natural sweetness of green beans with the comforting warmth of a cheesy cornbread topping. This delightful side dish is sure to become a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, its soothing qualities making it an excellent addition to any meal.
Green Bean and Smoked Sausage Skillet
Transform your evening meal into a flavorful and satisfying one-pan wonder by harmoniously combining the vibrant freshness of green beans, the savory depth of smoked sausage, and the sweet crunch of bell peppers in a single skillet. To elevate this dish to new heights, infuse it with the bold essence of Cajun spices, allowing their aromatic charm to permeate every bite.
Green Bean and Sundried Tomato Quiche
Indulge in the savory delight of a quiche infused with the freshness of green beans, the tanginess of sundried tomatoes, and the richness of Swiss cheese. This delectable dish is ideal for a leisurely brunch or an effortless dinner option, offering a satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Green Bean and Cilantro Pesto
Create a vibrant and flavorful pesto by combining the freshness of green beans, the herbal notes of cilantro, the pungency of garlic, the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese, and the smoothness of olive oil. This innovative sauce is perfect for elevating pasta dishes or serving as a tasty spread for sandwiches.
Green Bean and Corn Salad
Enliven your summer gatherings with a vibrant and revitalizing salad that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the crunch of blanched green beans, and the natural sweetness of corn kernels, all tied together with a subtle and refreshing light vinaigrette. This delightful side dish is perfect for warm weather occasions.
Green Bean and Sausage Soup
As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. This green bean soup, loaded with sausage, onions, and rich broth, is just the thing to satisfy your cravings on chilly days. It’s a hearty and warming meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.When it comes to adding some extra veggies to your diet, this collection of 36 easy green bean recipes has got you covered. Whether you’re looking for salads, soups, or casseroles, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? These recipes are perfect for cooking up a storm whether you’re preparing a meal for your family or hosting a dinner party that will impress even the pickiest of eaters. So why not grab some fresh green beans and get cooking?