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The Best Green Bean Recipes – Vegetable Sides

The Best Green Bean Recipes – Vegetable Sides


  • Author: Alice Barry
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and flavorful green bean side dish that combines fresh green beans with garlic, lemon, shallots, and a hint of Parmesan for a perfect balance of texture and taste. Ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe showcases why green beans are among the best vegetable sides for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh green beans – trimmed and cleaned
  • 2 tbsp olive oil – adds richness and helps with roasting
  • 2 cloves garlic – for aroma and depth
  • 1 shallot – adds mild sweetness
  • 1 tsp lemon zest – gives brightness and a fresh kick
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese – adds umami flavor
  • Salt and pepper – to taste
  • Optional: 2 slices cooked bacon – for a smoky finish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat for sautéing.
  2. Trim green beans and blanch in salted water for 2–3 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to preserve their bright color.
  3. In a bowl, toss green beans with olive oil, garlic, shallots, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread evenly on a baking sheet or cook in the skillet until tender and lightly browned (about 10–12 minutes).
  5. Sprinkle lemon zest and Parmesan cheese over the cooked beans.
  6. Optional: Top with crumbled bacon before serving for a savory finish.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the green beans to maintain their crisp texture.
  • For a dairy-free option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • This recipe can also be made with frozen green beans — thaw before cooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Roasting or Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: The Best Green Bean Recipes – Vegetable Sides, green bean casserole, roasted green beans, garlic green beans, lemon green beans, healthy vegetable sides, easy green bean recipes