Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for green beans with Parmesan cheese is the perfect solution. It’s a quick and healthy side dish that's surprisingly satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. This easy recipe showcases the natural sweetness of green beans, elevated by the salty, sharp bite of Parmesan. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Start by washing and trimming your green beans. Simply snap off the ends; there's no need for fancy tools. If using very thick beans, you may want to halve them lengthwise for even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic (Optional)
If you're using garlic, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; low and slow is key! The optional red pepper flakes can be added at this stage for a subtle kick.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a little bit of bite. If you don't have enough oil, feel free to add a tablespoon of water to help the beans steam and cook evenly.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Season the green beans with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and evenly distributed. Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish.
Tips for the Best Green Beans with Parmesan:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh green beans will result in the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked green beans will be mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
- Add Some Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavor.
- Other Cheese Options: Experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Roasted Green Beans: For a different texture, roast the green beans in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of sautéing them.
- Garlic and Herb Green Beans: Add other herbs like thyme or rosemary along with the garlic for a more complex flavor.
- Bacon Green Beans: Crumble some cooked bacon over the top for extra richness and flavor. This makes for a fantastic quick dinner idea.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 7-9g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This simple green beans with Parmesan cheese recipe is a testament to how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. Enjoy this versatile side dish with your favorite protein and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!