8 Simple & Tasty Green Bean Recipes to Cook in 2024

Green beans are a really easy vegetable to cook, making them a perfect addition to any meal. They’re quick to prepare and can be tossed into all kinds of dishes, from simple stir-fries to hearty stews. Plus, they’re packed with fiber and vitamin C, which means you’re getting both nutrition and flavor in one bite.

If you’re looking to try something new, green beans are an excellent base for adding exciting flavors. Whether you like them crunchy or tender, they can be roasted, sautéed, or even grilled to bring out different textures.

In this article, we’ll explore easy green bean recipes that make the most of this versatile veggie. Whether you want something fresh, bold, or comforting, these ideas will help you enjoy green beans in new and delicious ways.

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Add the cooked green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat them in the garlic butter.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.

6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the green beans are heated through and lightly browned.

Overview 🕵️

I really enjoy the flavors of these green beans sautéed in garlic butter. The combination of rich butter and savory garlic is simple yet incredibly satisfying, and it takes just minutes to make. I love how the green beans stay crisp while soaking up all the buttery goodness. 

It's the kind of side dish that works with almost anything, whether you're having a steak, roast chicken, or even a hearty pasta. The optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, but if you're like me and love garlic, feel free to add even more – it only enhances the flavor!

If you’re looking for even more inspiration, check out our full guide to easy recipes. We’ve gathered a variety of simple, delicious ideas that will help you bring fresh flavors to your meals with minimal effort. 

2. Green Beans & Caramelized Shallots

Ingredients 📃

• 30 oz fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 shallots, thinly sliced

• 1 oz almonds, roughly chopped

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 1 tsp sugar

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the green beans for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallots and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to caramelize.

3. Add the garlic, thyme, and sugar to the skillet with the shallots. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

4. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and chopped almonds. Stir frequently until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Combine the cooked green beans with the caramelized shallots and garlic mixture in a large bowl or serving dish.

6. Top with the crispy panko and almond mixture and serve immediately.

Overview 🕵️

This is a great recipe from HelloFresh. The combination of tender green beans, sweet shallots, and crispy almond and panko topping is a perfect balance of textures. The caramelized shallots add sweetness, while the garlic and thyme give it depth, making it feel like a special dish.

What I really enjoy is how simple it is to prepare, yet it’s impressive enough for any dinner or family meal. The almonds add texture, and the panko gives a delightful crunch without overpowering the flavors.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our top healthy meal delivery services. If you enjoy cooking, meal delivery services offer fresh ingredients and easy recipes, helping you create nutritious meals like this one at home.

3. Green Bean Casserole

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed mushroom soup

• 1 cup crispy fried onions

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Cook the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, mix the condensed mushroom soup with the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Add the cooked green beans to the soup mixture and stir gently to coat.

5. Transfer the green bean mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.

6. Top with the crispy fried onions.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden brown.

Overview 🕵️

This is one of my go-to recipes when I want something easy but comforting. There’s no need to fuss with complex sauces. Just a can of mushroom soup, garlic, and crispy onions come together for a rich, flavorful dish. I love how the green beans stay tender and the topping adds a satisfying crunch.

You can serve this casserole alongside roasted chicken or a juicy steak. It always makes a great addition to holiday meals too. It’s one of those dishes that everyone loves, and it pairs well with so many mains. Plus, it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner.

4. Green Beans & Bacon

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 4 slices bacon, chopped

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp lemon juice

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the green beans for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving some bacon grease in the skillet.

3. Add the butter to the same skillet and melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add the cooked green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and the crispy bacon.

Overview 🕵️

You’ll enjoy this dish whether you have it as a side or main. It’s a perfect blend of savory flavors with the richness of bacon and Parmesan, plus the freshness of green beans. The garlic butter sauce brings everything together beautifully, and the lemon juice adds a touch of brightness.

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes, whether you prefer more bacon or extra cheese. Try it as a side dish with roast chicken or steak, but it’s hearty enough to stand on its own for a quick meal. If you're craving a flavorful, satisfying dish that doesn’t take much time to make, this is the perfect choice!

5. Asian-Inspired Roasted Green Beans

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

• 2 scallions, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, toss the green beans with sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until evenly coated.

3. Spread the green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Roast for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the green beans are tender and slightly charred.

5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.

Overview 🕵️

This dish is one of my favorite ways to bring bold flavors to the table with minimal effort. Tossed in sesame oil, soy sauce, and garlic, the green beans take on a delicious savory kick, while the red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. 

Try serving this alongside baked salmon or grilled chicken for a quick, balanced meal. The sesame seeds and scallions on top not only make it look great but also add extra flavor and crunch. 

It’s the kind of side dish that works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for a dinner party, thanks to its vibrant, crowd-pleasing flavors. If you want to mix things up, this recipe is super easy to tweak to suit your preferences. You can go lighter on the spice or add extra scallions for more freshness. 

6. Green Bean Stir-Fry

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 tbsp sesame oil

• 3 tbsp peanut butter

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 1 tbsp lime juice or vinegar

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• Water, as needed, to thin the sauce

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup (or honey), lime juice (or vinegar), garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add a little water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Set aside.

2. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the green beans and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until tender but still crisp.

3. Reduce the heat to low, pour the peanut butter sauce over the green beans, and toss to coat evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Overview 🕵️

This recipe is packed with flavor, thanks to the creamy and fragrant peanut butter sauce. Depending on the brand of peanut butter you use, you might need to add a little water to get the sauce to the perfect consistency.

I enjoy serving this stir-fry over steamed rice or rice noodles to soak up the sauce, but it also pairs wonderfully with grilled tofu or chicken for a heartier meal. The balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize.

7. Mediterranean Green Bean Salad

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb green beans, trimmed and blanched

• 3 medium boiled potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 medium tomatoes, diced

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ½ cup olives (Kalamata or black), halved

• 1 small can tuna (optional), drained

• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp capers

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans, boiled potatoes, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.

2. Add the feta cheese, olives, capers, and tuna (if using). Gently toss to combine.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Serve immediately or let it chill for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Overview 🕵️

This is a vibrant mix of fresh flavors and textures that’s as satisfying as it is simple. The combination of tender green beans, creamy feta, and briny olives makes every bite deliciously balanced. Adding tuna gives it an extra protein boost, but it’s just as delightful without it.

It’s also a great dish to make ahead, as the flavors only get better after sitting for a while. Perfect for a picnic, potluck, or busy weekday lunch, this salad keeps well in the fridge and is easy to customize with your favorite Mediterranean ingredients.

8. Crispy Green Beans

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 egg, beaten

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika; one with the beaten egg; and one with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese combined.

3. Dip each green bean first into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks.

4. Arrange the coated green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the green beans are crispy and golden brown.

Overview 🕵️

These crispy green beans definitely aren’t a boring side, especially when paired with a tasty dipping sauce like ranch, garlic aioli, or even marinara. The crunchy coating and tender green beans inside make these a fun alternative to traditional veggie dishes.

This recipe is also a clever way to get kids excited about eating their veggies. The crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan coating turns green beans into an irresistible finger food they’ll actually ask for. 

For the best results, use a fork to handle the breaded beans and space them out evenly on the baking sheet. This ensures they bake up golden and crispy instead of steaming. It’s worth the extra care to get that satisfying crunch in every bite.

FAQ

What is the best flavor to add to green beans?

Lemon pairs really well with green beans. It brings a bright and tangy flavor that complements their mild taste. You can also enhance their savory notes with garlic, onion, and spices like chili powder or paprika. If you enjoy a touch of richness, try pairing green beans with bacon, which adds a savory depth​.

How to jazz up green beans?

To jazz up green beans, consider roasting them with garlic, herbs, or lemon. You can also roast them with soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes for an Asian-inspired twist. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can provide extra flavor and texture​.

Why cook green beans in baking soda?

Cooking green beans with a bit of baking soda helps maintain their vibrant green color by neutralizing acids that can dull their appearance. It also tenderizes the beans by breaking down their cell walls, but be careful not to use too much, as it can affect the flavor.