15 Green Bean Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Green beans are a versatile vegetable that can brighten up any meal with their fresh flavor and crisp texture. Exploring a variety of green bean recipes can help you enjoy this healthy ingredient in different and exciting ways.

Whether you’re preparing a simple side dish or adding them to a favorite casserole, green beans can fit into any cuisine.

In this article, you’ll discover how to cook green beans in various styles, from quick stovetop methods to delicious oven-baked options. You’ll find recipes that suit every taste, making it easy to include these nutritious veggies in your meals.

Whether you’re planning a family dinner or just looking for a quick side, there’s something for everyone here.

1) Garlic Parmesan Green Beans

Garlic Parmesan Green Beans are a simple and tasty way to enjoy fresh green beans. This dish combines the crispness of green beans with the rich flavor of garlic and Parmesan cheese.

Start by washing the green beans and trimming the ends. You can blanch them for a couple of minutes in boiling water for added color.

Heat some olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the green beans and cook until they are tender.

Before serving, toss the cooked beans with minced garlic and sprinkle in Parmesan.

Ingredients

• Fresh green beans
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Minced garlic
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Wash and trim the green beans.
2. (Optional) Blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes.
3. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the green beans and cook until tender.
5. Stir in minced garlic and sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.

2) Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions

Green bean casserole with crispy onions is a favorite for many. Its creamy texture paired with the crunchy topping makes it a delightful dish. You can prepare it quickly and serve it during any meal.

To start, you need ingredients like fresh or canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. This dish is great for holiday gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 cans of green beans (or 4 cups fresh green beans)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• Optional: garlic powder for extra flavor

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a baking dish, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper.
3. Stir in the green beans and 2/3 cup of crispy fried onions.
4. Bake for about 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
5. Top with the remaining crispy fried onions and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

3) Lemon Butter Green Beans

Lemon butter green beans are a simple and tasty side dish. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic really enhance the green beans. They are perfect for any meal and easy to prepare.

Start by blanching fresh green beans briefly in boiling water. This helps them stay vibrant and crisp. After that, transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Once fragrant, toss in the green beans and sauté for a few minutes. Finally, stir in some lemon juice and zest for that zesty flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes.
2. Transfer them to an ice bath to cool.
3. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Add the green beans and cook for 5-7 minutes.
6. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
7. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

4) Spicy Szechuan Green Beans

Spicy Szechuan Green Beans are a delicious way to enjoy this vegetable. They are crispy, flavorful, and have a nice kick. You can make this dish quickly, making it perfect for busy nights.

To start, trim and cut your green beans into 1-inch pieces. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, and add some oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in the green beans and stir-fry them for about 4–5 minutes.

Next, add minced garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Cook until the garlic is golden and fragrant, which takes about 1–2 minutes. You can adjust the spice by adding more chili flakes if you like it hot.

Ingredients

• ½ pound green beans
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Chili flakes (to taste)

Cooking Instructions

1. Trim and cut green beans into 1-inch pieces.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add green beans and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir in sesame oil and serve hot.

5) Balsamic Glazed Green Beans

Balsamic glazed green beans are a delicious side dish that pairs well with many meals. They are simple to prepare and add a tangy-sweet flavor to your plate.

Start by heating some olive oil in a pan. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add fresh green beans and cook until they reach your desired tenderness, about 2-3 minutes.

Next, stir in balsamic vinegar and a touch of sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute to let the flavors blend.

Enjoy your flavorful green beans as a side at dinner or any gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F or 175°C).
2. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
3. Add fresh green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in balsamic vinegar and sugar.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Cook for another minute and serve.

6) Green Beans Almondine

Green Beans Almondine is a simple yet classy dish perfect for any meal. It combines green beans, butter, garlic, and crunchy almonds for a wonderful taste.

You start by cooking fresh green beans until they’re tender. Then, you sauté sliced almonds in butter until golden brown.

Next, add garlic for flavor and mix in the green beans. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish and enhances the flavors.

This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy evenings or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
• 3 Tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (50 g) sliced almonds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water in a pot. Add the green beans and cook for 3 minutes until tender.
2. Drain the beans and rinse with cold water.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Sauté sliced almonds until golden.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in green beans and sauté for another 2 minutes.
7. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

7) Green Bean and Potato Salad

This green bean and potato salad is a tasty and colorful dish. It pairs well with many main courses and is perfect for gatherings. You can enjoy it warm or cold, making it versatile for any occasion.

To make this salad, start by boiling baby potatoes until they’re tender. Then, add green beans and cook until they’re bright green. Toss everything together with a Dijon mustard vinaigrette for a zesty flavor.

You can customize your salad by adding ingredients like red onion or fresh herbs. This salad not only looks great but also tastes fantastic!

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) baby potatoes
• ½ pound (225 g) green beans
• ½ red onion, chopped
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil the baby potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
2. Add the green beans and cook for another 3-5 minutes until bright green.
3. Drain the vegetables and cool slightly.
4. In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss the potatoes and green beans in the dressing.
6. Stir in the chopped red onion and herbs, if using.
7. Serve warm or chill in the refrigerator before serving.

8) Roasted Green Beans with Mushrooms

Roasted green beans with mushrooms make for a delicious side dish. The combination of flavors gives a nice earthy taste that pairs well with many meals.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and trim your green beans and mushrooms.

Toss them together in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add garlic for extra flavor.

Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.

These roasted veggies are perfect with grilled meats or as a healthy snack.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 8 ounces mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and trim green beans and mushrooms.
3. Toss green beans and mushrooms with olive oil, salt, and pepper (and garlic if desired).
4. Spread on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.

9) Asian-Style Green Bean Stir-Fry

Asian-Style Green Bean Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty dish you can whip up in under 15 minutes. Using just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that brightens up any dinner table.

This recipe features tender green beans with a delicious sauce that enhances their natural taste.

For this stir-fry, you’ll need fresh green beans, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 grams) fresh green beans
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C).
2. Add the green beans and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serve hot as a side dish or over rice.

10) Green Bean and Bacon Skillet

This green bean and bacon skillet is a tasty side dish that’s easy to make. The combination of crispy bacon with tender green beans brings great flavor to your meal.

Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside. In the same pan, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until they are soft.

Next, add fresh green beans to the skillet. Sauté them until they are bright green and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Then stir in the cooked bacon and mix everything well.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm as a delicious side with your favorite main dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 4 slices of bacon
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onions and garlic. Sauté until soft.
3. Add green beans and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
4. Stir in the cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

11) Honey Dijon Green Beans

Honey Dijon green beans are a delicious twist on a classic vegetable side dish. The sweet and tangy flavor of honey mustard complements the fresh green beans perfectly.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.

Next, toss the green beans in the mixture to coat them thoroughly. Spread the beans evenly on a baking sheet and sprinkle with sea salt and pepper if you like.

Roast the beans in the oven for about 7 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Enjoy these tasty green beans with any meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Sea salt and pepper (to taste)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Whisk together olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Coat the green beans in the mixture.
4. Spread beans on a baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Roast for 7 minutes until tender.

12) Southern-Style Green Beans and Ham

Southern-style green beans and ham are a delicious side dish. They are perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The combination of smoky ham and tender green beans creates a rich flavor that everyone will enjoy.

To make this dish, you can use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans. Cooking them slowly with a ham hock or bacon enhances the taste. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making mealtime even more inviting.

Ingredients

• 2 cans of green beans (or fresh/frozen equivalent)
• 1 smoked ham hock
• 1 onion, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, add the ham hock and diced onion.
2. Cover with water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for about 90 minutes.
4. Add the green beans and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

13) Caprese Green Bean Salad

Caprese Green Bean Salad is a fresh and colorful dish that pairs well with any meal. You can enjoy the flavors of green beans, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese in one bowl.

Start by blanching your green beans until they are tender yet crisp. This keeps their vibrant color and crunch. Mix them with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls.

Add a sprinkle of basil for extra flavor. Finish the salad with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and a touch of olive oil.

This salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 6 oz fresh mozzarella balls
• 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Blanch the green beans for 3-5 minutes until tender.
3. Drain beans and place in ice water to stop cooking.
4. In a bowl, combine green beans, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Toss gently and serve.

14) Crunchy Green Bean Slaw

Crunchy green bean slaw is a fresh and vibrant side dish. It combines crisp green beans with a tangy vinaigrette, making it perfect for any meal.

To start, blanch your green beans in boiling salted water for about two minutes. This keeps them bright and crisp. Then, transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process.

Next, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper for a delicious dressing. Toss the cooled green beans in the vinaigrette to coat them well.

This slaw can be served right away or chilled in the fridge for a refreshing taste.

Ingredients

• 1 pound green beans
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or red wine)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Blanch green beans in boiling salted water for 2 minutes.
2. Transfer beans to ice water to cool.
3. In a bowl, whisk oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the beans in the dressing.
5. Serve immediately or chill before serving.

15) Green Bean and Cherry Tomato Sauté

This green bean and cherry tomato sauté is a bright and tasty dish. It’s quick to make and is perfect as a side for any meal.

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fresh green beans and cook for about 3 minutes until they start to sear. Then, add cherry tomatoes and minced garlic for extra flavor.

Continue to cook until the tomatoes soften, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add fresh basil if you want a nice touch.

This dish is colorful and nutritious!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add green beans and cook for 3 minutes.
3. Then, add cherry tomatoes and garlic.
4. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve warm.