As the temperatures rise, our taste buds start to crave lighter, brighter flavors that scream summer. And what better way to celebrate the season than with a medley of delicious and refreshing bean recipes? From classic grilled green beans to innovative summer stews and dips, we’ve got you covered with 21 mouth-watering bean-based dishes perfect for every occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a quick and easy lunch idea, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. With an array of flavors and textures to choose from, there’s something for everyone in this collection of summer bean recipes that will keep your taste buds singing throughout the warmest months of the year.
Grilled Green Bean Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A refreshing summer salad that combines the natural sweetness of green beans with a tangy and zesty lemon vinaigrette, perfect for outdoor gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush green beans with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled green beans and lemon vinaigrette. Toss to coat.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Black Bean and Corn Salsa
A vibrant and refreshing salsa perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables on a warm summer day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, and garlic.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Spicy Chickpea and Green Bean Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the crunch of green beans, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, chickpeas, and green beans; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sriracha sauce. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lima Bean and Tomato Summer Stew
A refreshing summer stew that combines the sweetness of lima beans with the tanginess of fresh tomatoes, perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lima beans, water or broth, and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Stir well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cold Cannellini Bean and Herb Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for warm weather or as a light side dish any time of the year. The creamy cannellini beans are paired with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing, creating a deliciously simple yet flavorful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked cannellini beans, parsley, and basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to combine.
4. Add the minced garlic, if using, and stir gently.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold salad. Preparation time: approximately 10-15 minutes.
Zesty Three-Bean Summer Chili
A refreshing twist on traditional chili, this Zesty Three-Bean Summer Chili is perfect for hot summer days. With its bold flavors and colorful ingredients, it’s a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 can crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans to the pot. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Green Beans with Almonds
This recipe combines the sweetness of green beans with the savory flavors of garlic and butter, finished with a crunchy almond topping. A simple yet elegant side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add green beans to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Transfer the green bean mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and almonds.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine.
6. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the almonds are toasted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Bean and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe brings together the flavors of summer with the sweetness of roasted peppers, the creaminess of quinoa, and the tender crunch of fresh beans. A perfect side dish or main course for a warm weather gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed summer beans (such as green beans, wax beans, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, beans, olive oil, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crispy Air-Fried Green Beans with Dipping Sauce
A game-changing twist on a classic side dish, these crispy air-fried green beans are perfectly seasoned and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss green beans with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Add panko breadcrumbs and toss until the green beans are well-coated.
4. Load the green bean mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, or until crispy and golden brown.
Dipping Sauce:
– Mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
– Serve immediately with the crispy air-fried green beans.
Fresh Fava Bean and Mint Pasta Salad
A light and refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of fava beans with the brightness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. bow tie or penne)
– 1 cup fresh fava beans, shelled
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine fava beans, mint leaves, and olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add white wine vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Baked Beans with Smoked Sausage
This classic recipe combines sweet and tangy baked beans with savory smoked sausage, perfect for a summer barbecue or potluck. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful side dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 smoked sausages (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, combine soaked navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add sliced smoked sausages on top of the bean mixture.
4. Cover the pot with aluminum foil and bake for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Summer Bean and Avocado Tacos
This refreshing recipe combines the flavors of summer with the convenience of tacos. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack, these tacos are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, red bell pepper, onion, and cumin.
2. Slice the lime into wedges and set aside.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by diced avocado and a squeeze of lime juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Roasted Green Beans with Parmesan and Garlic
Roasted Green Beans with Parmesan and Garlic: A simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 14-17 minutes
Cucumber and White Bean Summer Salad
Perfect for hot summer days, this refreshing salad combines the crunch of cucumbers with the creaminess of white beans. This light and flavorful dish is ideal as a side or added to sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1 can cannellini beans (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, cannellini beans, and a pinch of salt.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber-bean mixture and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Edamame and Snap Pea Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the sweetness of snap peas with the savory spiciness of edamame. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shelled edamame
– 1 cup fresh snap peas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or chili flake for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add edamame and snap peas; stir-fry 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summer Bean and Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Add a burst of summer flavor to your plate with these colorful skewers featuring tender shrimp, crunchy beans, and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup mixed summer beans (such as green beans, yellow wax beans, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp, beans, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy White Bean and Basil Dip
This creamy dip is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender cannellini beans, fresh basil, garlic, and a hint of lemon. Serve with crudités, pita chips, or crackers for a delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped basil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cannellini beans, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled with your favorite dippers.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep time)
Summer Bean and Farro Salad with Citrus Dressing
This refreshing salad is perfect for hot summer days, combining the flavors of tender farro, colorful beans, and a zesty citrus dressing. It’s a light and satisfying side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 cups mixed summer beans (such as green beans, wax beans, and snap beans)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, sauté summer beans with garlic until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, and honey until well combined.
4. Add cooked farro and sautéed beans to the citrus dressing. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Green Bean and Potato Summer Hash
A flavorful summer side dish that combines the sweetness of green beans with the earthiness of potatoes, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss green beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced potatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
4. Add roasted green beans to the skillet with potatoes. Stir to combine and season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings (garlic powder, paprika, or red pepper flakes).
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Bean and Zucchini Fritters
These crispy fritters are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer in a light and refreshing snack or side dish. Made with fresh beans, zucchini, and herbs, they’re perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked green beans, chopped
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the green beans, zucchini, flour, cornmeal, egg, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the bean mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10 minutes per batch.
Refreshing Bean and Cucumber Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing gazpacho recipe, perfect for a summer’s day. This chilled soup is packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and diced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine beans, cucumbers, bell pepper, parsley, garlic, and smoked paprika.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add olive oil and water.
4. Continue blending until well combined.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing bean recipes! From salads to stir-fries, there’s something for every occasion. Try grilling green beans with lemon vinaigrette, making a spicy chickpea and green bean stir-fry, or enjoying a cold cannellini bean and herb salad. For a twist on classic chili, try the zesty three-bean summer chili recipe. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and crispy or hearty and comforting, these 21 recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Leave a Reply