GREEN BEANS WITH PARMESAN BREAD CRUMBS

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, look no further than this vibrant and crunchy GREEN BEANS WITH PARMESAN BREAD CRUMBS recipe. Perfectly cooked green beans are topped with a savory mixture of parmesan cheese, toasted nuts, and golden breadcrumbs, creating a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. This recipe transforms humble green beans into a star on your dinner table, making it a must-try for family gatherings or weeknight meals.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Cooks rave about this GREEN BEANS WITH PARMESAN BREAD CRUMBS recipe because it effortlessly elevates a simple vegetable into something extraordinary. The contrast of textures—from the crisp green beans to the crunchy breadcrumb topping—along with the rich flavors of parmesan and garlic, makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. Whether served alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as a standalone dish, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

The Ingredient Lineup

To make this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb green beans, tips removed
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter, for greasing
• Lemon juice, to sprinkle over the dish
• 1 heaping cup day-old bread, cubed
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese shavings
• ½ cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
• ¼ cup olive oil or melted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped

Cook’s Kit

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:

• Large pot for boiling the green beans
• Baking dish or sheet for roasting
• Mixing bowl to combine the breadcrumb topping
• Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping
• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy

GREEN BEANS WITH PARMESAN BREAD CRUMBS in Steps

Creating this beautiful dish is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps for perfect results.

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain the beans and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

Step 2: Make the Breadcrumb Topping

While the green beans are cooling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, parmesan cheese, chopped nuts, chopped garlic, and olive oil or melted butter. Mix well until the bread cubes are fully coated. This mixture will create a crunchy topping that pairs perfectly with the beans.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter. Place the blanched green beans in the dish and spread them out evenly. Top with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even coverage. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy. Once finished, remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh lemon juice before serving.

Better Choices & Swaps

If you’re looking to customize this dish or make it even healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Use whole grain or gluten-free bread for a healthier or gluten-free version.
• Swap out pecans or walnuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
• Instead of parmesan, try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free cheese substitute.
• Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

Notes on Ingredients

When selecting your ingredients, keep these tips in mind:

• Fresh green beans are best for this recipe; look for vibrant, crisp beans without blemishes.
• Day-old bread works wonderfully, as it absorbs the oil without getting too soggy.
• Parmesan cheese shavings can be substituted with any hard cheese, such as pecorino or grana padano.
• Feel free to experiment with different nuts or omit them entirely if you prefer a simpler topping.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later use:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container, but note that the texture may change after thawing.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This will help maintain the crispiness of the topping.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my green beans are overcooked?

If your green beans are overcooked, they may become mushy and lose their vibrant color. To prevent this in the future, always prepare an ice bath to stop the cooking immediately after blanching.

Can I use frozen green beans instead?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans; however, make sure to thaw and drain them well before using, as they may release excess moisture during cooking.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this dish vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese and replace it with nutritional yeast. Use vegan butter or olive oil in place of regular butter.

What can I serve with GREEN BEANS WITH PARMESAN BREAD CRUMBS?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a hearty pasta. It also works well as part of a vegetarian spread.

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Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make this fantastic GREEN BEANS WITH PARMESAN BREAD CRUMBS recipe! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

With its delightful crunch and savory flavors, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy green beans, making them irresistible for even the pickiest eaters. Happy cooking!