Beans with lemon and fresh herbs

This vibrant Beans with Lemon and Fresh Herbs dish combines the nutty flavor of toasted pine nuts with crisp green beans, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. It's a simple yet flavorful side that pairs well with various meals.

04 Dec 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup pine nuts
2 cups green beans
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp chives
1 tbsp fresh parsley
Beans with lemon and fresh herbs

This delightful recipe for Beans with Lemon and Fresh Herbs is a perfect side dish that combines the nutty flavor of pine nuts with the freshness of green beans, lemon, and herbs. It's both simple to make and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to any meal.

Instructions:

1. Toast the Pine Nuts:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the pine nuts and toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to let them burn.
- Once toasted, remove the pine nuts from the skillet and set them aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
- Rinse and trim the green beans.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt and the green beans.
- Cook the green beans for 3-5 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
- Drain the green beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and help retain their vibrant green color.
- After a few minutes, drain the green beans from the ice water and pat them dry with a clean towel.
3. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil until emulsified.
4. Assemble the Dish:
- In a large bowl, combine the green beans, chives, and fresh parsley.
- Drizzle the lemon-olive oil dressing over the green beans and herbs.
- Toss everything together until the green beans are well-coated with the dressing.
5. Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top of the dressed green beans.
- Give everything a final gentle toss.
6. Plating:
- Transfer the green beans with lemon and fresh herbs to a serving platter or individual plates.
- Serve immediately as a delightful side dish or enjoy as a light, refreshing main course.

This recipe for Beans with Lemon and Fresh Herbs is a quick and easy way to bring a burst of freshness to your table. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the combination of textures from the tender beans, crunchy pine nuts, and vibrant herbs with a tangy hint of lemon.

Beans with lemon and fresh herbs FAQ:

What is the best way to tell if the green beans are done cooking?

Green beans should be tender yet crisp when cooked. Try one after 3 minutes; if it’s bright green and still has a slight crunch, they are done.

How should I store leftovers of this bean dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beans may lose some crispness but will still be tasty.

Can I substitute pine nuts with another nut or seed?

Yes, you can substitute pine nuts with chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a similar texture and flavor.

What size pot should I use for boiling the green beans?

Use a large pot to ensure the green beans can be submerged fully in boiling water for even cooking.

Is it possible to prep the green beans in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the green beans up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator; blanching them just before serving will enhance their freshness.

Cooking Tips:

- Toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor. Be sure to keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly.

- For the best texture, blanche the green beans briefly in boiling water before tossing them in the pan.

- You can add different herbs such as basil or mint to personalize the dish.

- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, zest the lemon before juicing it and add the zest to the dish.

Nutrition Facts

2 Servings
Calories 250kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 9g
Fat 24g

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