10 Delicious Green Bean Recipes Perfect for Holiday Dinners

When it comes to holiday dinners, green beans are a classic side dish that can be dressed up or down to fit any menu. From simple sautéed versions to creamy casseroles, these delicious recipes will bring something special to your festive table. With a variety of flavors and cooking techniques, you’re sure to find the perfect green bean dish to impress your guests this season.

Classic Green Bean Casserole: A Timeless Holiday Favorite

Green bean casserole is a staple at many holiday dinners. This dish combines tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. It's not just tasty; it brings back memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.

The image showcases a beautifully baked green bean casserole. The vibrant green beans peek through a golden, crunchy topping that adds a delightful texture. The warm, inviting colors make it hard to resist. This dish is perfect for sharing and is sure to please everyone at the table.

Making this casserole is simple and rewarding. You can prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday cooking a little easier. Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to create this classic dish!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Add the blanched green beans to the mixture and stir until they are evenly coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and stir in half of the crispy fried onions.
7. Top with the remaining fried onions and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
8. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious green bean casserole!

Garlicky Sautéed Green Beans: A Quick And Flavorful Side

Garlicky sautéed green beans are a fantastic addition to any holiday dinner. These vibrant green beans, tossed with garlic and a sprinkle of salt, bring a fresh and zesty flavor to your table. The bright color and crisp texture make them visually appealing and delicious.

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it alongside your main courses or as part of a larger spread. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors of the green beans to shine through, making it a perfect side for any festive meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the green beans and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.
5. If using, sprinkle slivered almonds on top before serving.

Balsamic Roasted Green Beans: A Savory Twist

Balsamic roasted green beans are a delightful addition to any holiday dinner. The image shows vibrant green beans tossed with sliced almonds, all glistening with a rich balsamic glaze. This dish combines the freshness of green beans with a tangy sweetness that elevates the flavor profile.

To make this dish, you’ll need fresh green beans, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and sliced almonds. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the beans while the balsamic adds depth. It's a simple yet elegant side that pairs well with any main course.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the green beans on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. During the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the sliced almonds over the green beans.
6. Remove from the oven and serve warm. Enjoy this savory twist on a classic holiday side!

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Spicy Szechuan Green Beans: A Bold Flavor Experience

Spicy Szechuan green beans bring a delightful twist to your holiday table. These vibrant green beans are not just a side dish; they are a flavor-packed experience. The bright green color pops against the rich red of the Szechuan sauce, making them visually appealing and tempting to taste.

This dish combines fresh green beans with a spicy sauce that has a hint of sweetness. The crunch of the beans paired with the bold flavors makes it a standout choice. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, allowing you to focus on other holiday dishes.

To make these spicy green beans, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Fresh green beans are the star, complemented by garlic, Szechuan peppercorns, and red bell peppers for added color and sweetness. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a nice finishing touch.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop cooking.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili paste. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Szechuan peppercorns, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the Vegetables: Toss in the blanched green beans and diced red bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
5. Combine: Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy your spicy Szechuan green beans warm!

Honey Glazed Green Beans: Sweetness Meets Savory

Honey glazed green beans are a delightful addition to any holiday dinner. This dish combines the natural sweetness of honey with the savory flavor of green beans, creating a perfect balance. The vibrant green color of the beans, enhanced by a glossy glaze, makes it visually appealing on the dinner table.

In the image, you can see a generous serving of these green beans, beautifully arranged on a platter. They are topped with sesame seeds and a hint of red pepper flakes, adding a pop of color and a touch of spice. The soft glow of candles in the background sets a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for holiday gatherings.

This recipe is not only simple but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday cooks. The sweet and savory flavors will impress your guests and make your meal memorable.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Green Beans: In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the green beans for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Glaze: In a skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
3. Combine: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through and well coated.
4. Serve: Transfer the glazed green beans to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your sweet and savory holiday side dish!

Green Beans With Bacon: A Smoky, Savory Delight

Green beans with bacon are a classic side dish that brings a smoky, savory flavor to any holiday dinner. The bright green beans contrast beautifully with the crispy, salty bacon, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a favorite among family and friends.

Cooking green beans with bacon is simple and quick. Start by blanching the green beans to keep them vibrant and tender. Then, sauté the bacon until it’s crispy, allowing the fat to render. Toss the green beans in the pan with the bacon, letting them soak up that rich flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with roasted meats and can be made ahead of time, making it a great addition to your holiday spread.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the bacon fat and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the Green Beans: Toss the blanched green beans into the skillet, stirring to coat them in the bacon fat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Combine and Serve: Stir in the crispy bacon, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with lemon juice if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Maple Dijon Green Beans: A Sweet And Tangy Combination

Maple Dijon green beans are a delightful addition to any holiday dinner. The vibrant green beans, tossed with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon dressing, create a dish that is both simple and impressive. The crunch of toasted pecans adds a lovely texture, making this recipe a crowd-pleaser.

To make this dish, start by blanching fresh green beans until they are bright green and tender-crisp. This keeps their vibrant color and fresh flavor. Then, prepare a quick dressing using maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of lemon juice. This combination brings a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.

Once the beans are coated in the dressing, toss in some toasted pecans for added crunch. Serve this dish warm or at room temperature, and watch it disappear from the table!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Toss the Beans: In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans with the dressing. Toss until the beans are evenly coated.
4. Add Pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

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Pesto Green Beans: A Herbaceous Delight

Pesto green beans are a fantastic way to bring a burst of flavor to your holiday dinner table. The vibrant green beans, tossed in a rich and aromatic pesto, create a dish that is both simple and elegant. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a fresh twist to their traditional holiday sides.

The combination of tender green beans and the herbaceous notes of pesto makes this dish a standout. You can use store-bought pesto for convenience or whip up your own for a personal touch. Either way, the result is a delightful side that complements any holiday main course.

To prepare this dish, start by blanching the green beans until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Then, toss them in a generous amount of pesto, ensuring each bean is coated. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice finishing touch.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. Toss with Pesto: In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans and pesto. Toss until the beans are evenly coated. If desired, drizzle with olive oil for added richness.
3. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Serve: Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this herbaceous delight at your holiday dinner!

Roasted Green Beans With Parmesan: A Flavorful Finish

Roasted green beans with Parmesan are a delightful addition to any holiday dinner. The image showcases a beautiful bowl of perfectly roasted green beans, glistening with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The vibrant green color of the beans contrasts nicely with the white cheese, making it visually appealing.

This dish is not just about looks; it’s packed with flavor. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the beans, while the Parmesan adds a savory touch. A hint of lemon zest can brighten the flavors even more, making it a refreshing side dish.

To prepare this dish, you’ll need fresh green beans, olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. The recipe is simple and quick, perfect for busy holiday cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the green beans in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are tender and slightly crispy.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, if using.
6. Serve warm and enjoy this tasty side dish!

Green Beans With Mustard Vinaigrette: A Tangy Surprise

Green beans with mustard vinaigrette are a delightful twist on a classic side dish. The vibrant green beans are perfectly cooked, maintaining their crispness. The mustard vinaigrette adds a tangy flavor that elevates the dish, making it a standout at any holiday dinner.

This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also visually appealing. The glossy mustard dressing drizzled over the bright green beans creates an inviting presentation. It’s a dish that will catch the eye and entice everyone at the table.

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to make this delicious side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process.
2. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Toss the Beans: Drain the green beans from the ice water and pat them dry. In a large bowl, toss the green beans with the mustard vinaigrette until evenly coated.
4. Serve: Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish. Enjoy this tangy surprise at your holiday dinner!

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