Green Bean Puff

Green Bean Puff Recipe with Celery, Mayonnaise, Mustard, and Paprika

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Green Bean Puff is a delicious and creamy side dish that is perfect for any meal. The combination of tender green beans, crunchy celery, and a fluffy mayonnaise sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

History

The origins of Green Bean Puff are unclear, but it is believed to have been a popular dish in American households in the mid-20th century. This classic recipe has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among families today.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked green beans, drained
0.25 cup diced celery
0.75 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp mustard
0.25 tsp salt
1 tsp vinegar
0.25 cup milk
1 stiffly beaten egg white
0.25 tsp paprika

How to prepare

Combine beans and celery in a 5-cup casserole dish.
Blend together mayonnaise, mustard, salt, vinegar, and milk.
Fold in the egg white into the mayonnaise mixture; gently pile it over the beans.
Sprinkle with paprika.
Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes or until the sauce puffs up, browns, and the beans are thoroughly heated.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Mix in shredded cheese for a cheesy twist.
Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the cooked green beans thoroughly to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Stiffly beaten egg whites are key to creating a light and fluffy sauce for the green beans.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, mustard, or vinegar as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Green Bean Puff pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the Green Bean Puff at a high temperature helps the sauce to puff up and brown, creating a light and airy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version of this dish.

- Use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar in place of regular vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

Green Bean Puff can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap and bake when ready.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Green Bean Puff with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color. Serve it in a decorative casserole dish for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Green Bean Puff with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the creamy sauce and tender green beans.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Green Bean Puff can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Green Bean Puff contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Green Bean Puff contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Green Bean Puff contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Green Bean Puff contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Green beans are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Green Bean Puff is a nutritious side dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a well-rounded addition to any meal.

Summary

Green Bean Puff is a classic and comforting side dish that is sure to please a crowd. With its creamy sauce and tender green beans, this dish is a delicious addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew I had to try it. It was a sunny afternoon in the summer of 1965, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret at her cozy little cottage by the sea. As we sat on her porch sipping iced tea and catching up on each other's lives, Margaret suddenly excused herself and disappeared into the kitchen.

A few minutes later, she emerged with a steaming hot dish that smelled absolutely divine. "Green bean puff," she announced with a smile, setting the dish down on the table in front of me. "I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her grandmother before her. It's a family favorite."

I took one bite and was instantly hooked. The creamy mixture of green beans, cheese, and breadcrumbs was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. It was comfort food at its finest, and I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Margaret was more than happy to share the recipe with me, and she patiently walked me through each step as I scribbled notes furiously in my old recipe journal. I made my first batch of green bean puff that very evening, and it turned out surprisingly well. From that moment on, it became a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made green bean puff countless times, always trying to perfect the recipe and make it my own. I have added my own little twists and tweaks here and there, experimenting with different cheeses, herbs, and seasonings to create a dish that is uniquely mine.

One of my favorite memories involving green bean puff happened a few years ago, when my grandchildren came to visit for the weekend. They had never tried the dish before, and I was eager to see their reaction. As I set the steaming hot casserole on the table, their eyes widened with curiosity.

"What's this, Grandma?" my youngest grandchild asked, poking at the dish with a fork.

"Green bean puff," I replied with a smile. "It's a family recipe that I learned from a dear friend many years ago. Give it a try."

They hesitantly took a bite, and their faces lit up with delight. "This is delicious, Grandma!" they exclaimed in unison, quickly devouring the rest of their servings.

I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride in my chest as I watched them enjoy the dish that had become such a beloved part of my own culinary journey. It was a special moment that I will always treasure.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the many recipes that have passed through my hands over the years, I am grateful for the connections they have brought into my life. From dear friends like Margaret to cherished family members, each recipe holds a story and a memory that I hold dear.

And so, as I continue to cook and bake and share my recipes with those I love, I am reminded of the magic that food can bring into our lives. It is more than just sustenance; it is a way to connect, to create, and to share a piece of ourselves with others.

And so, as I prepare to make another batch of green bean puff for dinner tonight, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and love. For this simple dish, with its humble origins and rich history, has become so much more than just a recipe to me. It is a symbol of the joy and warmth that food can bring into our lives, and I am grateful for each and every bite.