Buzz
Photo Credit: Gentl & HyersWhen you're looking for an easy yet vibrant side dish to complete your dinner spread, fresh green beans are the ideal choice. Whether boiled, steamed, roasted, or blanched, green beans offer a nutritious and adaptable option that’s far from dull. Discover our array of recipes to turn this classic side into a showstopper for holidays, celebrations, or even a casual weeknight meal.
1. Crisp Green Bean and Celery Salad
Greg DupreeGreen beans, apples, and celery are staples on holiday tables, but combining them in one dish is a delightful twist. Paired with a tangy dressing of Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar, this recipe offers a refreshing and unexpected treat.
2. Green Bean Salad Topped with Crispy Bread Crumbs
Greg DuPreeCrispy breadcrumbs sautéed with anchovies and lemon zest bring a delightful crunch to this dish, perfectly complementing its garlic-infused dressing. For a vibrant presentation, mix green, wax, and purple beans.
3. Garlic-Infused Green Beans Topped with Pine Nuts
Mikkel VangWith just a handful of ingredients—olive oil, garlic, and pine nuts—this recipe elevates cooked green beans with a rich, nutty flavor. If the 15-minute prep time isn’t enticing enough, consider that pine nuts are among the healthiest nuts you can use.
4. Green Beans Tossed in Bacon Vinaigrette
Gentl & HyersThis recipe combines cooked green beans with a warm dressing of caramelized shallots, tangy cider vinegar, and crispy bacon. This stovetop side dish comes together in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
5. Lemon-Garlic Green Beans with Roasted Chicken
Christopher BakerIn this dish, fresh green beans and petite red potatoes serve as vibrant accompaniments to the chicken. The convenience of roasting everything in one pan ensures effortless preparation and cleanup.
6. Rosemary and Garlic Infused Chicken Thighs
Greg DupreeThough green beans aren’t highlighted in the recipe title, they steal the show when cooked in savory chicken drippings (after the chicken is removed) until they reach a perfect crisp-tender texture, adding a rich and flavorful touch.
7. Fresh Spring Minestrone
Caitlin BenselThis hearty, vegetable-rich soup stars green beans alongside leeks, celery, and Swiss chard. Combined with ditalini (or any small pasta) in a savory vegetable or chicken broth, it creates a vibrant and flavorful springtime dish.
8. Hanger Steak Paired with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Greg DuPreeThis simple yet flavorful dish combines vibrant, crunchy green beans with crispy potatoes and tender hanger steak. Jarred roasted red peppers save time, while garlic, smoked paprika, vinegar, and olive oil blended into a puree elevate the dish with rich, smoky flavors. If steak isn’t your preference, chicken or fish can be substituted without compromising the delicious taste.
9. Stir-Fried Ground Chicken with Green Beans
Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless, Food Stylist: Emily Neighbors HallWhile ground chicken takes the lead in this recipe’s title, green beans play an equally starring role. A savory sauce of mirin, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic ties the dish together, while Fresno chiles add a spicy kick. Served over rice, this stir-fry ensures every bite is packed with umami goodness.
10. Potato Salad with a Niçoise Twist
Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Carla Gonzalez HartThis potato salad features fingerling potatoes, French green beans, grape tomatoes, and Kalamata olives as its foundation. Drawing inspiration from the classic Niçoise salad of Nice, France, this version emphasizes potatoes and green beans while keeping the rest simple. A tangy Dijon and dill dressing tops it off, making it an ideal companion to grilled meats or your preferred protein.
