As the holiday season approaches, many of us are looking for new and exciting ways to serve up our favorite vegetables alongside the main event. Green beans are a classic choice that can be elevated with creative twists and flavorful toppings. In this article, we’ll explore 19 festive green bean recipes perfect for your Christmas dinner menu. From savory casseroles to sweet and crunchy salads, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of garlic parmesan, bacon-wrapped, or cranberry-almond, there’s something on this list that will satisfy your holiday cravings.
Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just want to impress your family with a special side dish, these green bean recipes are sure to become new traditions. So grab some fresh beans and get started on making this Christmas dinner one to remember!
Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole
A twist on the classic casserole recipe, this garlic parmesan green bean version adds a savory and aromatic flavor profile. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and garlic in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, flour, and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the green bean mixture and stir until coated.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with French-fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles
Elevate your side dish game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines crispy bacon, tender green beans, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the green beans into 1-inch bundles.
3. Wrap each bundle with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Almond Green Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of almonds and the tender freshness of green beans, perfect for a quick and easy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss green beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted green beans, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
6. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Green Bean Gratin
A creamy, cheesy casserole that elevates humble green beans to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add green beans and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Pour cream mixture over green beans and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Green Beans with Pecans
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the richness of maple syrup and the crunch of toasted pecans. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, this flavorful combination is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for added depth of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add green beans to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange green beans in a single layer.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. In a small skillet, toast pecans over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
7. Remove green beans from oven and toss with toasted pecans and optional soy sauce (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green Bean and Mushroom Medley
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of green beans with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, creating a delicious and healthy side dish perfect for any meal. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this medley is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss green beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread green beans on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms and garlic in remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
5. Combine roasted green beans and cooked mushrooms in a serving dish. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Green Beans
This recipe combines the crunch of green beans with the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine, featuring a spicy kick from chili flakes and garlic. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high.
3. Add garlic, ginger, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add green beans; stir-fry until tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Potato Christmas Stew
Get cozy this holiday season with a comforting and flavorful stew that combines the best of green beans, potatoes, and aromatic spices. This hearty recipe is perfect for a chilly winter’s night or as a delightful side dish for your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the green beans, potatoes, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Green Beans
Lemon Herb Roasted Green Beans: A Bright and Zesty Side Dish
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of green beans with the tangy flavor of lemon and the freshness of herbs. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meal, this roasted green bean recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss green beans with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and rosemary until well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread green beans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Caramelized Onion Tart
Elevate your brunch game with this sweet and savory tart, featuring caramelized onions and fresh green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions and olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Arrange green beans in a single layer on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Spoon caramelized onion mixture over green beans.
6. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg and fold other half over filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Walnut Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines crisp green beans with crunchy walnuts and savory soy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This dish is also gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce (or tamari)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the garlic and stir-fry for another minute.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and walnuts. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the green beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Bean and Bacon Stuffed Potatoes
A creative twist on classic twice-baked potatoes, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of green beans with the smoky richness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. While potatoes are baking, sauté green beans with butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Scoop out potato flesh, leaving a shell about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Mix green bean mixture with crumbled bacon.
6. Stuff each potato shell with the green bean-bacon mixture.
7. Top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Return potatoes to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Green Bean and Feta Cheese Casserole
A classic combination of tender green beans, creamy feta cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs makes this casserole a perfect side dish for any occasion. With its simplicity and flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine feta cheese, milk, and melted butter. Mix well.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the green beans in an even layer.
5. Pour the feta mixture over the green beans, followed by sprinkling breadcrumbs on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Cherry Tomato Skewers
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the crunch of green beans. Perfect for a quick lunch, dinner party, or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for a Greek twist)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread green beans, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using) onto skewers.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green Bean and Sweet Corn Christmas Salad
Brighten up your holiday gatherings with this festive and flavorful salad, featuring crisp green beans and sweet corn, perfect for the winter season.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup frozen sweet corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss green beans with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast green beans in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted green beans, sweet corn kernels, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Toss gently to combine.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green Bean and Ham Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the sweetness of green beans with the smokiness of ham, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or holiday gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups french-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked ham and black pepper to the soup mixture; stir to combine.
5. Combine green bean mixture and ham-soup mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle french-fried onions on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Chestnut Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meal with this savory stuffing recipe that combines the natural sweetness of chestnuts with the earthy flavor of green beans. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup cooked and cooled chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onion in butter until tender. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chestnuts and bread cubes.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green Bean and Red Pepper Christmas Stir-Fry
A vibrant and flavorful holiday stir-fry that combines the crunch of green beans with the sweetness of red peppers, perfect for a quick and easy Christmas dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large red bell peppers, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans, red peppers, and garlic; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Continue stirring for an additional minute.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Bean and Cranberry Christmas Relish
Add a burst of festive flavor to your holiday dishes with this vibrant green bean and cranberry relish. Perfect for topping crackers, using as a condiment, or serving alongside your favorite holiday meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 inches of water to a boil.
2. Add the green beans and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop cooking.
4. Once cooled, chop the green beans into small pieces.
5. In a bowl, combine the chopped green beans, cranberries, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Christmas dinner with these 19 festive green bean recipes! From classic casseroles to innovative stir-fries, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole or Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles for a savory twist. For a lighter option, opt for Cranberry Almond Green Bean Salad or Lemon Herb Roasted Green Beans. Or, go all out with Cheesy Green Bean Gratin or Maple Glazed Green Beans with Pecans. Whatever you choose, these green bean recipes are sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering.
