32 Delicious Can String Bean Culinary Creations

Posted on November 9, 2025 by Maryann Desmond

Did you know that humble canned green beans can transform into extraordinary meals? From quick weeknight dinners to comforting casseroles and vibrant seasonal sides, these versatile pantry staples are about to become your new kitchen heroes. Get ready to discover 32 creative ways to turn simple canned string beans into delicious culinary creations that will delight your family and impress your guests!

Garlic Butter String Beans

Garlic Butter String Beans
Fresh string beans get a major upgrade with this garlic butter treatment. Forget boring steamed vegetables – this quick side dish delivers serious flavor in under 15 minutes. Follow these steps for perfectly crisp-tender beans every time.

Ingredients

– 1 pound of fresh string beans, ends trimmed
– 3 tablespoons of salted butter
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– A splash of olive oil
– A couple of pinches of kosher salt
– A generous sprinkle of black pepper

Instructions

1. Wash and thoroughly dry 1 pound of fresh string beans, then trim off the stem ends.
2. Mince 4 garlic cloves while heating a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add a splash of olive oil to the hot skillet, swirling to coat the surface evenly.
4. Toss in the prepared string beans and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they develop light char marks.
5. Push beans to one side and add 3 tablespoons of salted butter to the empty space.
6. Once butter melts, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
7. Toss everything together and season with a couple of pinches of kosher salt and generous black pepper.
8. Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes until beans are crisp-tender when pierced with a fork.
9. Remove from heat and transfer to serving dish immediately. Here’s the payoff: those crisp-tender beans soak up all that garlicky butter goodness while keeping their satisfying snap. The charred edges add smoky depth that balances the rich sauce perfectly. Try serving them alongside grilled steak or tossing with pasta for an easy vegetarian main.

String Bean Casserole Supreme

String Bean Casserole Supreme
Let’s get straight to this upgraded classic that transforms ordinary green beans into something extraordinary. Loaded with crispy onions and creamy sauce, this casserole delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Lasts beautifully as a make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

– 1½ pounds fresh string beans, trimmed
– 2 cups crispy fried onions
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– ½ cup milk
– A good splash of soy sauce
– A couple of garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
3. Blanch the string beans for 4 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
4. Immediately transfer beans to an ice bath to stop cooking—this keeps them vibrant and crisp-tender.
5. Drain beans thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
7. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
8. Whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce in a large bowl.
9. Stir in sautéed garlic and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
10. Gently fold blanched string beans into the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
11. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
12. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
13. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until bubbly around the edges.
14. Remove from oven and top evenly with crispy fried onions.
15. Return to oven for 5 more minutes until onions are golden and crispy.
16. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving—this allows the sauce to thicken slightly.

Every bite delivers that perfect contrast between creamy sauce and crispy toppings. The beans maintain just enough snap while soaking up the savory mushroom flavor. Try serving it alongside roasted chicken or spooned over baked potatoes for a comforting twist.

Spicy Szechuan String Beans

Spicy Szechuan String Beans
Oven-roasted or stir-fried, these spicy Szechuan string beans deliver serious flavor with minimal effort. They’re the perfect side dish when you want something vibrant and vegetable-forward but packed with heat. The dry-frying technique gives them that signature blistered texture without turning them mushy.

Ingredients

– A pound of fresh string beans, ends trimmed
– A couple tablespoons of vegetable oil
– A tablespoon of Szechuan peppercorns
– A couple cloves of garlic, minced
– A teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
– A splash of soy sauce
– A teaspoon of sugar
– A splash of rice vinegar

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat for 2 minutes until very hot.
2. Add string beans in a single layer and dry-fry for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans develop dark brown blistered spots.
3. Remove beans from skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add vegetable oil to the same skillet.
5. Add Szechuan peppercorns and toast for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for 20 seconds to prevent burning.
7. Return string beans to the skillet and toss to coat with the aromatics.
8. Add soy sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar, stirring continuously for 1 minute until sauce glazes the beans.
9. Cook for another 2 minutes until beans are tender-crisp but not soft.
10. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Don’t let these sit too long or they’ll lose their crisp texture. Dry-frying before saucing creates that restaurant-quality blistered exterior while keeping the inside crisp. Toasting the Szechuan peppercorns first maximizes their numbing, citrusy flavor. Drizzle with chili oil for extra heat or serve alongside steamed rice to balance the spice. The beans should have a satisfying snap with that addictive ma-la tingle that makes you keep reaching for more.

String Bean and Almond Salad

String Bean and Almond Salad

Dinner needs something crisp and satisfying without the fuss. This string bean and almond salad delivers exactly that with minimal prep and maximum crunch. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh string beans, ends trimmed
  • ½ cup sliced almonds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • A pinch of salt
  • A couple cracks of black pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Add the string beans and blanch for exactly 3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
  3. Immediately transfer beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process, which preserves their vibrant color and crunch.
  4. Drain the cooled beans thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to prevent a watery salad.
  5. Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, shaking frequently until golden and fragrant.
  6. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  7. Toss the blanched string beans with the dressing until evenly coated.
  8. Fold in the toasted almonds just before serving to maintain their crisp texture.
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That satisfying snap of cool beans against toasty almonds makes this salad endlessly refreshing. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or flaking in some canned tuna for a complete meal. The garlic-lemon dressing clings perfectly to every nook and cranny.

Savory String Bean Stir-Fry

Savory String Bean Stir-Fry
Bursting with crisp-tender texture and savory notes, this string bean stir-fry comes together in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fresh yet satisfying without the fuss.

Ingredients

– 1 pound of fresh string beans, ends trimmed
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– A splash of sesame oil
– A pinch of red pepper flakes
– A couple of tablespoons of water

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add 1 pound of trimmed string beans and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until they start to blister and turn bright green. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
3. Push beans to one side, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the empty space, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Tip: Adding garlic to the oil directly prevents burning and maximizes flavor.
4. Pour in a couple of tablespoons of water, cover the skillet, and steam for 2–3 minutes until beans are crisp-tender. Tip: Steaming with water softens the beans without making them mushy.
5. Uncover, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and a splash of sesame oil, and toss everything together for 1 minute until well coated and heated through.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Keep it simple with steamed rice or toss in cooked shrimp for extra protein—the beans should be snappy with a savory, garlicky kick that’s lightly spicy from the pepper flakes.

Lemon Zest String Beans

Lemon Zest String Beans
Lemon zest string beans transform ordinary green beans into a vibrant side dish with minimal effort. Let their natural crunch shine through bright citrus notes for a refreshing accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

– A pound of fresh green beans, ends trimmed
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Zest from one large lemon
– A couple of garlic cloves, minced
– A splash of fresh lemon juice
– A pinch of red pepper flakes
– Salt to season

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for exactly 3 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
3. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
4. Drain the beans thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up when sautéed.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
6. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
7. Add the dried green beans to the skillet in a single layer, arranging them so they make contact with the hot surface.
8. Cook the beans undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop a slight char on one side.
9. Toss the beans and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp with some browned spots.
10. Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice.
11. Season with salt and toss everything together until evenly coated.

A perfect balance of crisp-tender texture and bright citrus flavor makes these beans ideal alongside grilled chicken or fish. The lemon zest clings beautifully to each bean, creating little bursts of freshness in every bite. Try serving them at room temperature for a picnic or potluck where their vibrant color really stands out.

Creamy String Bean Gratin

Creamy String Bean Gratin
Whip up this cozy side dish when you need something comforting yet elegant. Creamy string bean gratin transforms simple green beans into a decadent casserole with crispy, cheesy topping. It’s perfect for holiday dinners or elevating weeknight meals with minimal effort.

Ingredients

– 1 pound fresh string beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
– ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
3. Add the trimmed string beans and boil for exactly 4 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
4. Immediately transfer beans to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking—this keeps them vibrant and crisp-tender.
5. Drain beans thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
7. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally.
8. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
9. Sprinkle flour over onion mixture and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a pale golden roux.
10. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth, scraping up any browned bits from pan bottom.
11. Bring sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
12. Remove from heat and stir in ¾ cup Gruyère and all Parmesan until melted and smooth.
13. Season sauce with nutmeg, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper.
14. Gently fold blanched string beans into cheese sauce until evenly coated.
15. Transfer mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish, spreading evenly.
16. Combine remaining ¼ cup Gruyère with panko breadcrumbs in a small bowl.
17. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over bean mixture.
18. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and topping is golden brown.
19. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving—this allows the sauce to thicken slightly for cleaner slices.

Nothing beats the contrast of tender beans in rich sauce beneath that crunchy, cheesy crust. The nutmeg adds subtle warmth that complements the sharp cheeses beautifully. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted chicken or pile it onto crusty bread for an indulgent open-faced sandwich.

Bacon-Wrapped String Bean Bundles

Bacon-Wrapped String Bean Bundles
Zesty bacon-wrapped string bean bundles transform simple ingredients into an elegant appetizer. These crispy, savory bites come together quickly for any gathering. Perfect for holiday tables or game day snacks.

Ingredients

– 1 pound fresh string beans, ends trimmed
– 12 slices regular-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– A couple of pinches of kosher salt
– A good crack of black pepper
– A splash of maple syrup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
3. Blanch the string beans for exactly 3 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
4. Immediately transfer beans to an ice water bath to stop cooking—this keeps them vibrant and crisp-tender.
5. Pat beans completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispy bacon.
6. Divide beans into 12 equal bundles, about 8-10 beans each.
7. Wrap one bacon slice tightly around the center of each bundle.
8. Arrange bundles seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Drizzle olive oil evenly over all bundles.
10. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
11. Bake for 20 minutes until bacon is cooked through but not crispy.
12. Brush each bundle lightly with maple syrup.
13. Switch oven to broil and cook for 2-3 more minutes until bacon is crispy and caramelized—watch closely to prevent burning.
14. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving so the bacon firms up.

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Keep these beauties warm on a platter for serving. The contrast between the crispy, salty bacon and tender-crisp beans is irresistible. Try drizzling with balsamic glaze or serving alongside a creamy dip for extra flair.

String Bean Potato Salad

String Bean Potato Salad
Haven’t found a potato salad that actually feels fresh? This string bean version changes everything with crisp vegetables and a bright dressing that cuts through the richness. Perfect for picnics or as a side that actually gets eaten.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds of small red potatoes, halved
– a big handful of fresh string beans, trimmed
– half a red onion, thinly sliced
– a couple of tablespoons of olive oil
– a generous splash of red wine vinegar
– a spoonful of Dijon mustard
– a pinch of salt and black pepper

Instructions

1. Place the halved potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 12-15 minutes until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While potatoes cook, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes.
4. Add the trimmed string beans to the boiling potato water during the last 3 minutes of cooking to blanch them.
5. Drain both potatoes and string beans immediately and transfer them to the ice bath to stop the cooking process.
6. Let the vegetables chill in the ice bath for exactly 5 minutes to maintain crisp texture.
7. Drain the cooled vegetables thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard until emulsified.
9. Combine the potatoes, string beans, and sliced red onion in a large mixing bowl.
10. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
11. Season with salt and black pepper, then toss one more time to distribute seasoning.
12. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Let this salad chill completely before serving—the cold temperature makes the crisp string beans snap perfectly against the creamy potatoes. The tangy mustard dressing soaks into the warm potatoes as they cool, creating layers of flavor in every bite. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or pile it on toasted bread for a satisfying lunch.

Herbed String Bean Risotto

Herbed String Bean Risotto
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Herbed string bean risotto transforms a classic comfort dish into something fresh and vibrant. This version swaps traditional additions for crisp green beans and aromatic herbs. You’ll get creamy rice with satisfying crunch in every bite.

Ingredients

– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, kept warm
– 2 cups fresh string beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– A big handful of fresh parsley, chopped
– A couple of fresh thyme sprigs
– A splash of lemon juice
– Salt and black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add Arborio rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until grains turn slightly translucent around the edges.
5. Pour in white wine and cook while stirring until completely absorbed, about 2 minutes.
6. Add 1 cup of warm chicken broth and stir continuously until liquid is nearly absorbed.
7. Continue adding broth 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and waiting for each addition to be absorbed before adding the next.
8. After 15 minutes of adding broth, stir in string beans and fresh thyme.
9. Continue adding remaining broth and stirring until rice is al dente and creamy, about 5 more minutes.
10. Remove from heat and stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
11. Finish with a splash of lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper.
12. Remove thyme sprigs before serving.

Risotto should be creamy but still have a slight bite to the rice. The string beans add wonderful texture contrast against the smooth background. Serve immediately in shallow bowls, maybe topped with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for restaurant-style presentation.

String Bean and Mushroom Medley

String Bean and Mushroom Medley
Unleash your inner chef with this vibrant string bean and mushroom medley that transforms simple ingredients into something spectacular. Using fresh produce and bold seasonings creates a dish that’s both nutritious and deeply satisfying. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy without the hassle.

Ingredients

– A pound of fresh string beans, ends trimmed
– About 8 ounces of cremini mushrooms, sliced
– A couple of tablespoons of olive oil
– Two minced garlic cloves
– A splash of soy sauce
– A pinch of red pepper flakes
– A squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
2. Add the string beans to the hot oil and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they develop some char marks.
3. Push the string beans to one side of the skillet and add the sliced mushrooms to the empty space.
4. Cook the mushrooms undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden-brown sear before stirring.
5. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet, stirring everything together for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in the soy sauce and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat all the vegetables.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the medley, tossing to combine.
8. Transfer to a serving dish immediately to prevent overcooking. Seriously satisfying textures await in this medley—the crisp-tender beans play perfectly against the meaty mushrooms. The soy sauce adds umami depth while the lemon brightens everything up. Try serving it over quinoa or alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal that feels restaurant-worthy.

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Sesame Ginger String Beans

Sesame Ginger String Beans

Whip up these sesame ginger string beans when you need a quick, flavorful side. They come together in under 15 minutes with ingredients you likely have on hand. The savory-sweet glaze clings perfectly to crisp-tender beans.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh string beans, ends trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
  2. Add string beans and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop a slight char.
  3. Stir beans and continue cooking for 4-5 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
  4. Push beans to one side of the skillet and add garlic and ginger to the empty space.
  5. Cook garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan – this ensures proper browning rather than steaming.
  7. Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey, then stir everything together.
  8. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens and coats the beans.
  9. Tip: The sauce should bubble vigorously and reduce to a glossy glaze.
  10. Remove skillet from heat and drizzle with sesame oil.
  11. Toss to combine and transfer to serving dish.
  12. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds immediately before serving.
  13. Tip: Toasting sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2 minutes enhances their nutty flavor.

Vibrant and glossy, these beans maintain a satisfying crunch beneath the sticky glaze. The ginger provides a warm kick that balances the salty-sweet sauce perfectly. Try serving them alongside grilled chicken or tossing any leftovers into a grain bowl the next day for an instant flavor upgrade.

String Bean and Tomato Frittata

String Bean and Tomato Frittata
Craving a quick, protein-packed meal that won’t weigh you down? This string bean and tomato frittata is your answer. It’s a one-pan wonder perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a simple dinner.

Ingredients

– 6 large eggs
– A splash of whole milk (about 2 tablespoons)
– A good pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper
– A glug of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon)
– A couple of handfuls of fresh string beans, ends trimmed
– 1 medium tomato, chopped into rough chunks
– Half a small yellow onion, thinly sliced
– A small handful of shredded cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. 2. Whisk the 6 eggs, 2 tablespoons of milk, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color. 3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 10-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat for 1 minute. 4. Add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. 5. Add the trimmed string beans and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the beans brighten in color and are tender-crisp. 6. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the veggies will steam instead of sauté. 7. Scatter the chopped tomato evenly over the vegetables in the skillet. 8. Pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over all the vegetables in the pan. 9. Let the eggs cook undisturbed on the stovetop for 2 minutes, until you see the edges just beginning to set. 10. Sprinkle the 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the frittata. 11. Tip: Using an oven-safe skillet from the start is crucial for a seamless transition from stovetop to oven. 12. Carefully transfer the entire skillet to the preheated 375°F oven. 13. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the center is fully set and doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the pan. 14. Tip: The frittata is done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. 15. Remove the skillet from the oven using an oven mitt. 16. Let the frittata rest in the pan for 3-5 minutes before slicing. Here’s the best part: the frittata emerges light and fluffy with pockets of juicy tomato. The string beans add a satisfying, tender-crisp bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy egg. Serve a warm wedge with a simple side salad for a complete, effortless meal.

String Bean Pesto Pasta

String Bean Pesto Pasta
Zesty string beans and vibrant pesto transform ordinary pasta into a fresh weeknight hero. This quick dish delivers garden-fresh flavor in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

Ingredients

– 8 ounces of pasta
– A big handful of fresh string beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup of basil pesto
– A couple of garlic cloves, minced
– A generous glug of olive oil
– A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
– A pinch of red pepper flakes
– A handful of toasted pine nuts
– A shower of grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add pasta and cook for 8 minutes according to package directions.
3. Add string beans to the pasta pot during the final 3 minutes of cooking.
4. Drain pasta and beans together, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
6. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
7. Tip: Toasting garlic slowly brings out its sweetness without bitterness.
8. Add drained pasta and string beans to the skillet.
9. Stir in basil pesto and 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water.
10. Toss continuously for 2 minutes until everything is well coated.
11. Tip: The starchy pasta water helps the pesto cling to every strand.
12. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
13. Toss again to combine all elements evenly.
14. Remove from heat and stir in toasted pine nuts.
15. Tip: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds satisfying crunch.
16. Divide among bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Now you’ve got a dish where the crisp-tender beans provide satisfying snap against the silky pesto-coated pasta. The bright basil and nutty Parmesan create layers of flavor that feel both fresh and comforting. Try serving it with grilled chicken or extra vegetables for a complete meal that never gets boring.

Conclusion

Culinary creativity truly shines in these 32 string bean recipes! From quick sides to hearty mains, there’s something for every home cook to love. We hope you find new favorites to add to your meal rotation. Don’t forget to share which recipes you tried in the comments below and pin this article to your Pinterest boards for easy reference. Happy cooking!

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