Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

Introduction

If you’re on the hunt for an easy, delicious, and healthy side dish that will elevate any meal, look no further than Roasted Parmesan Green Beans. These green beans are roasted to perfection, coated in a crispy mixture of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs that add both flavor and texture. The recipe is so simple that it has quickly become a favorite in our household. Whether paired with a weeknight dinner, a holiday feast, or served alongside grilled meats, these roasted green beans will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

When I first made this dish, my family was skeptical about green beans—especially my kids! But after just one bite, they were hooked. The crispy edges, cheesy coating, and hint of garlic make these green beans a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect way to get everyone excited about eating their vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons grated or shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (or substitute with fresh roasted garlic if desired)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures that the green beans get crispy without overcooking.
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
   Trim the ends off the fresh green beans and place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the green beans, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Add the Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, salt, and garlic powder, and toss everything together until the green beans are fully coated with the mixture.
3. Roast the Green Beans:
   Spread the green beans in a single layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet. Make sure the green beans aren’t overlapping too much, as this helps them roast evenly. Roast the green beans in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The green beans should be tender with crispy, golden edges when done.
4. Serve:
   Once roasted, transfer the green beans to a serving platter. If desired, you can sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving. The extra cheese adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the dish look even more appealing!
5. Enjoy:
   Serve your Roasted Parmesan Green Beans alongside any main course and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness. It pairs especially well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a snack.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish:
  Roasted Parmesan green beans make a wonderful side dish for any meal, especially with roasted chicken, pork, or beef.
• With Dips:
  Serve with a creamy dip like ranch, sour cream, or a homemade garlic aioli for a fun twist.
• Add More Flavor:
  If you like a bit more heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the green beans before roasting them.
• Serve with Garlic Bread:
  Complement these green beans with a side of crispy garlic bread for an unbeatable meal.
• Toppings:
  Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary after baking for an extra layer of flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
   To ensure that the green beans roast evenly and get crispy, it’s important not to overcrowd the baking sheet. If necessary, use two baking sheets or roast in batches.
2. Roast Fresh Green Beans:
   While you can use frozen green beans, fresh green beans will provide the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before roasting.
3. Use Fresh Garlic:
   If you prefer a more robust garlic flavor, try using fresh roasted garlic instead of garlic powder. Simply roast a few garlic cloves and mash them into the olive oil before tossing with the green beans.
4. Add Lemon Zest:
   For a fresh twist, sprinkle some lemon zest over the roasted green beans before serving. The citrus will balance out the richness of the cheese.
5. Double the Recipe:
   This recipe is so easy and popular that it’s worth making in larger batches. Just double the ingredients and roast in two pans for larger gatherings.

Recipe Variations

• Add Bacon:
  For a smoky, savory kick, add some crumbled bacon to the green beans before serving. The crispy bacon adds a delightful contrast to the Parmesan coating.
• Make it Vegan:
  Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to make this dish vegan. The yeast will give it a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Add Nuts:
  For added texture, sprinkle some chopped almonds or walnuts over the green beans just before serving. The nuts provide an extra crunch that complements the breadcrumbs.
• Cheese Swap:
  While Parmesan works beautifully, feel free to swap it for other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Roasted Green Beans:
  Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture before roasting to give the green beans a little heat.

Serving Suggestions

• With Grilled Meats:
  These roasted Parmesan green beans pair perfectly with grilled steaks, chicken, or fish. The crispy texture and cheesy flavor balance well with savory, smoky meats.
• On a Holiday Table:
  They are a great side dish for holiday meals, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday family dinner. They’re simple yet elegant enough to impress guests.
• With Pasta Dishes:
  Serve as a side for creamy pasta dishes like Alfredo or Carbonara. The crunch of the green beans will contrast nicely with the richness of the pasta.
• As a Snack:
  These green beans can even be enjoyed as a light snack. The crispy coating is addictive and makes for a fun alternative to chips or fries.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage:
  Store leftover roasted green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to crisp them up again.
• Freezing:
  You can freeze the green beans before roasting. Blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. After they’re dry, toss them with olive oil, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, roast them from frozen at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen green beans?
   Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before roasting to avoid excess moisture.
2. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
   Absolutely! Fresh roasted garlic will add a deeper, more intense flavor. Just mash it and mix it with the olive oil before tossing with the green beans.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes! Simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
4. How can I make the green beans crispy?
   Make sure to spread the green beans in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. This allows them to roast and crisp up evenly.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   You can prepare the green beans ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
6. What other cheeses can I use besides Parmesan?
   Asiago, Pecorino Romano, and even a sharp cheddar can be used in place of Parmesan for different flavors.
7. How do I know when the green beans are done?
   The green beans should be tender and slightly crispy on the edges. Taste one to make sure it’s cooked through and has reached the desired texture.
8. Can I add other vegetables?
   Yes, you can add other vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet for a mixed vegetable dish.
9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Yes, use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative and a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
10. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
    While fresh Parmesan is recommended for the best flavor, pre-shredded cheese will also work if that’s what you have on hand.

Conclusion

These Roasted Parmesan Green Beans are the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and texture. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, they make a satisfying side dish that pairs with almost any main course. The crispy Parmesan and panko coating provides the right amount of crunch, while

the green beans stay tender and flavorful. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress!

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