Description
This Italian Green Beans recipe features tender green beans tossed in a flavorful blend of toasted garlic, chili flakes, breadcrumbs, and savory herbs, finished with Parmesan cheese for a delicious Low-Fat side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Green Beans
- 1.5 lbs. Green beans, washed and trimmed
Seasoning & Topping
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 4 minutes until they turn bright green and are crisp-tender. Immediately remove the beans and plunge them into cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- Toast Garlic and Chili Flakes: Using the same pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking gently until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Add Breadcrumbs and Herbs: Stir in the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, and dried thyme. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the breadcrumbs are toasted and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. This will deepen the flavor and add a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Toss the Green Beans: Return the blanched green beans to the pot. Toss them thoroughly in the garlic-herb breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the dressed green beans to a serving dish and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Blanching the green beans helps maintain their bright color and crisp texture.
- Use fresh garlic and good quality Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Feel free to substitute panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead; just reheat gently before serving.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
