When it comes to Thanksgiving, I think we can all agree that the sides are just as important as the turkey! That’s where these *thanksgiving beans* come into play. They’re not your average green beans; I’ve added a savory twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of fresh green beans, crunchy walnuts, and rich Parmesan cheese creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them an ideal addition to your holiday spread. Trust me, once you try these beans, they’ll become a Thanksgiving staple in your home!
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Beans
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Beans
Preparing these *thanksgiving beans* is a breeze, and trust me, it’s so rewarding when you see everyone enjoying them at the table! First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) so it’s nice and hot when your beans are ready to go. While that’s heating up, take a moment to trim the ends off your fresh green beans. I like to snap them off, but you can use a knife if that’s easier for you.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, grab a large bowl and mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic begins! Toss your trimmed green beans into this flavorful mixture until they’re well coated. Make sure every bean gets a good hug from that garlic goodness!
Next, spread the beans out evenly on a baking sheet. You want them to roast, not steam, so give them some space. Now, sprinkle the chopped walnuts and grated Parmesan cheese on top—oh boy, this is where they really start to shine! Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the beans are tender but still have a lovely crunch. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time!
- Flavorful taste: The combination of garlic, walnuts, and Parmesan cheese elevates the classic green beans to a whole new level.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings: These *thanksgiving beans* are sure to impress your family and friends, making them a standout on any table.
- Healthy and wholesome: Packed with nutrients and fiber, this dish adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your holiday spread.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out walnuts for your favorite nuts or experiment with different seasonings to make it your own!
Tips for Success
To make sure your *thanksgiving beans* turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my top tips! First, don’t skip the preheating step; having your oven hot will help give those beans a lovely roast instead of just steaming them. Also, be generous with the olive oil—it’s key to keeping the beans from drying out and helps them caramelize beautifully.
If you want an extra punch of flavor, let the garlic sit in the olive oil for a few minutes before mixing it in with the beans. Oh, and don’t be afraid to taste as you go! Adjusting the salt and pepper to your liking will make all the difference. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is a little different, so check for that perfect tender-crunchy texture around the 20-minute mark. Happy cooking!
Variations for Thanksgiving Beans
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up these *thanksgiving beans*! Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
- Pecan Delight: Swap out the walnuts for pecans for a sweeter, richer flavor. Toasting them lightly before adding will give an extra crunch and depth!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture for a delightful heat that elevates the dish.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with the garlic for an aromatic twist that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest sprinkled on just before serving will brighten everything up and add a refreshing zing!
- Cheesy Variations: Try using different cheeses, like feta or goat cheese, for a creamier texture and a unique flavor profile.
These variations are so easy to implement and can really make your *thanksgiving beans* stand out. Feel free to get creative and find what fits your taste best!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious *thanksgiving beans*, you might be wondering how to store any leftovers. Don’t worry, it’s super easy! First, let the beans cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep nicely in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal them well so they don’t dry out!
When it’s time to reheat, you have a couple of options. For the best texture, I recommend popping them back in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), spread the beans on a baking sheet, and heat them for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain that lovely crunch!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat them in the microwave. Just place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes. Give them a stir halfway through to ensure even warming. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t get too mushy. Enjoy those leftovers! They’re just as tasty the next day!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for a serving of these delightful *thanksgiving beans*. Each serving is about 1 cup and is packed with flavor while still being kind to your waistline. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 5g
These *thanksgiving beans* are not just a fantastic addition to your holiday feast; they’re also a nutritious choice that brings a vibrant touch to your plate. Enjoy every bite without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, frozen green beans work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before tossing them in the olive oil mixture. This helps prevent them from becoming soggy in the oven.
What other nuts can I use in these *thanksgiving beans*?
You can definitely mix it up! Pecans, almonds, or even pine nuts would be delicious alternatives. Each nut will bring its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! If you want to save time on Thanksgiving day, prepare the beans up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate them for a few hours. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready, and they’ll taste just as fresh!
How do I know when the beans are done baking?
Keep an eye on them! You’ll want to bake the beans until they’re tender but still have a bit of crunch left. A good rule of thumb is to check around the 20-minute mark. Just poke one with a fork to see if it’s to your liking!
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! If you want to get creative, adding in some sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even thinly sliced carrots would make a colorful and tasty addition to your *thanksgiving beans*. Just adjust the baking time slightly if needed!
Thanksgiving Beans: 5 Savory Twists You Must Try
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious side dish featuring green beans with a savory twist, perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Trim the ends of the green beans.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the green beans in the olive oil mixture.
- Spread the beans on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle walnuts and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the beans are tender.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Can substitute walnuts with pecans.
- For a vegan option, omit Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: thanksgiving beans, green beans, holiday side dish
