Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, this dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese enhances the natural taste of green beans, while toasted pine nuts add a satisfying crunch.
- Nutritious: Green beans are a great source of fiber and vitamins, and this recipe maintains their nutritional value without overwhelming them with heavy sauces.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, rinsed and ends trimmed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
- ¼ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Boil the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cook on medium heat for 5 minutes. Drain the beans.
- Sauté Garlic and Green Beans: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and the cooked green beans. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring to combine.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the skillet from heat. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the beans are well-coated.
- Finish with Pine Nuts and Seasoning: Top the green beans with the lightly toasted pine nuts. Season with coarsely ground black pepper. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 5 minutes.
- Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
- Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Variations
- Nuts: While pine nuts are an excellent choice, you can substitute them with other nuts such as pecans, cashews, or slivered almonds. Ensure to lightly toast the nuts for the best flavor.
- Cheese: If Parmesan isn’t available, consider using Asiago, Pecorino Romano, goat cheese, or feta cheese.
- Olive Oil: This recipe shines with high-quality olive oil, but if you prefer, you can use butter instead.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the green beans gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
FAQs
How do I prevent the green beans from becoming mushy?
To maintain a crisp texture, avoid overcooking the green beans. Boil them for just 5 minutes and immediately drain them to stop further cooking.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used. Thaw them first and then proceed with the recipe as directed. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly softer compared to fresh green beans.
What can I substitute for pine nuts?
If pine nuts are unavailable or if you have a nut allergy, consider using toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a substitute.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
To make this recipe dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How can I add more flavor to this dish?
For additional flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra citrus notes.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. Add the toasted pine nuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.
What main courses pair well with this side dish?
Green Beans with Pine Nuts pairs well with a variety of main courses, including grilled chicken, roasted pork, lamb chops, or duck.
How do I toast pine nuts?
To toast pine nuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they become golden brown and fragrant, taking care not to burn them.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms to enhance the dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that all ingredients used, such as the Parmesan cheese, are certified gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.
Conclusion
Green Beans with Pine Nuts is a versatile and flavorful side dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a memorable addition to any meal. Its quick preparation and delightful taste make it a go-to recipe for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
Green Beans with Pine Nuts
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Green Beans with Pine Nuts is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines fresh green beans, garlic, lemon, Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a crunchy and savory complement to any main course.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, rinsed and ends trimmed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
- ¼ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
Instructions
- Boil the Green Beans – Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and salt. Cook for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Sauté Garlic and Green Beans – In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and green beans. Sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add Flavorings – Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and mix in Parmesan cheese until evenly coated.
- Finish with Pine Nuts and Seasoning – Top with toasted pine nuts, season with black pepper, and adjust salt if needed.
Notes
- Nut Substitutes: Use almonds, cashews, or pecans instead of pine nuts.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap Parmesan with Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or a dairy-free option.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
