Introduction
Roasted green beans are a simple yet delicious side dish that can complement any meal. The balance of fresh green beans with a touch of olive oil, sea salt, and pepper creates a delightful flavor that enhances their natural sweetness. This recipe includes optional toppings that can elevate the dish, making it suitable for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
Optional toppings:
½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, grated
Grated Parmesan cheese
Toasted sliced almonds
Lemon zest
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
14 to 16 minutes
Total Time
24 to 26 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 as a side dish
Enjoy your delicious roasted green beans!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the green beans
Divide the trimmed green beans evenly between the two baking sheets. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle with the sea salt and several grinds of black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheets.
Step 3: Roast
Place the baking sheets in the oven and roast for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and browned in spots.
Step 4: Season and serve
If using, drizzle the roasted green beans with fresh lemon juice and toss to coat. For added flavor, toss with the grated garlic while the beans are still warm. Transfer to a serving dish and, if desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese, toasted sliced almonds, and/or lemon zest.
Notes
Note 1
Make sure to trim the ends of the green beans for a cleaner presentation and better texture.
Note 2
Adjust the seasoning to your preference, adding more sea salt or black pepper as desired.
Note 3
For the best flavor, serve the roasted green beans immediately after cooking. They are a great side dish with a variety of main courses.
Note 4
Feel free to experiment with different toppings to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting is a cooking technique that uses dry heat in an oven. This method caramelizes the natural sugars in vegetables, resulting in enhanced flavors and a crispy texture.
Tossing
Tossing is the act of gently mixing ingredients together, ensuring even distribution of seasonings or coatings, which helps maximize flavor in the dish.
Drizzling
Drizzling refers to pouring a small amount of liquid, such as olive oil or lemon juice, over food to enhance flavor or add moisture without overwhelming the dish.
Coating
Coating involves applying a layer of seasoning or oil to ingredients, ensuring that they are uniformly covered, which contributes to a balanced taste throughout the dish.
Layering
Layering is the process of arranging food in a single, flat layer on a baking sheet, allowing for even cooking and better airflow, which helps achieve optimal roasting results.
FAQ
How do I know when the green beans are done?
The green beans are done when they are tender and have browned spots, typically after 14 to 16 minutes of roasting.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add other vegetables that roast well, such as bell peppers or zucchini, but consider adjusting cooking times for different textures.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option or any hard cheese of your choice for added flavor.
Can I prepare roasted green beans in advance?
Roasted green beans are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare them ahead and reheat them in the oven briefly to restore their crispness.
How do I store leftover roasted green beans?
Store leftover roasted green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Conclusion
Roasted green beans are a simple, healthy side dish that can elevate any meal. Their natural sweetness and slight crunch make them a delightful addition to your table. With the optional toppings, you can customize the flavor to suit your preferences, adding brightness with lemon or richness with cheese and nuts.
Green Beans with Garlic and Parmesan
Enhance your roasted green beans by adding extra grated garlic and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving for a savory touch.
Almond-Crusted Green Beans
Before roasting, toss your green beans with chopped toasted almonds for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with their tender interior.
Citrus and Herb Infusion
Mix in a blend of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary along with lemon zest for a fragrant and vibrant twist on classic roasted green beans.
Spicy Roasted Green Beans
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha to your green beans before roasting for a kick of heat that complements the vegetable’s natural flavors.
Asian-Inspired Green Beans
Toss the roasted green beans with soy sauce and sesame oil after cooking, and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an umami-packed flavor profile.
