Lemon-Walnut Green Beans

Lemon-Walnut Green Beans Recipe - Vegan and Vegetarian Food

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Lemon-Walnut Green Beans is a delicious and nutritious side dish that combines the freshness of green beans with the tangy flavor of lemon and the crunch of walnuts. This recipe is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish for a special occasion.

History

The combination of green beans, lemon, and walnuts is a classic one that has been enjoyed for generations. This recipe takes that classic combination and adds a modern twist with the addition of fresh rosemary for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients

8 cups of small green beans
cooking spray
2 cups of sliced green onions
0.33 cup of chopped walnuts
1.5 tbsp of chopped fresh or 0.75 tbsp of crushed dried rosemary
5 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
1.5 tbsp of grated lemon rind

How to prepare

1. Arrange the green beans in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 8 to 12 minutes or until they are crisp-tender. Plunge the beans into cold water to stop the cooking process and then drain them.
2. Spray a sauté pan with cooking spray. Over medium-high heat, add the green onions and sauté them until they are tender. Add the green beans, walnuts, rosemary, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring constantly, until everything is thoroughly heated. Sprinkle with lemon rind.

Variations

For a vegan version of this dish, omit the walnuts or substitute them with toasted pine nuts.
Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy twist.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish.

Notes

Cook Time:
Serves: 8

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure not to overcook the green beans, as they should be crisp-tender for the best texture.

- Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the dish will enhance their flavor and crunch.

- Fresh rosemary is preferred for this recipe, but if you only have dried rosemary on hand, be sure to crush it before adding it to the dish to release its flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon-Walnut Green Beans pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal. It can also be served alongside roasted potatoes or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the green beans before sautéing them ensures that they are cooked to perfection without losing their vibrant color and crisp texture. Sautéing the green onions and walnuts in a hot pan adds depth of flavor to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have green beans on hand, you can use asparagus or broccoli as a substitute. You can also use almonds or pecans instead of walnuts for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can steam the green beans ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to sauté them with the other ingredients. This dish is best served fresh, so be sure to add the lemon juice and rind just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Lemon-Walnut Green Beans in a colorful serving dish garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs for a beautiful presentation. The vibrant green beans and lemon zest will add a pop of color to your table.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water infused with lemon slices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Lemon-Walnut Green Beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply sauté them in a pan over medium heat until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lemon-Walnut Green Beans contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lemon-Walnut Green Beans contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lemon-Walnut Green Beans contains approximately 6 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Lemon-Walnut Green Beans contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Green beans are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium and manganese. The lemon in this recipe adds a boost of vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains walnuts, which are a common allergen. Be sure to check for any nut allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Lemon-Walnut Green Beans is a nutritious side dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet.

Summary

Lemon-Walnut Green Beans is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its bright flavors and crunchy texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend, Rose, in her quaint little cottage by the countryside. As she busied herself in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be drawn to the delicious aroma wafting through the air.

Rose noticed my curiosity and with a twinkle in her eye, she beckoned me over to her side. "I'm making my famous Lemon-Walnut Green Beans," she said with a smile. "Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I eagerly nodded, my stomach rumbling in anticipation. Rose had always been known for her culinary skills and I knew that this recipe would be no exception. As she guided me through the steps, I listened intently, taking in every detail with a keen eye.

The first step was to blanch the green beans in boiling water until they were tender yet still crisp. Rose explained that this would help to bring out their vibrant color and ensure that they were the perfect texture for the dish. Once they were cooked to her satisfaction, she quickly plunged them into ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their freshness.

Next, Rose showed me how to toast the walnuts in a dry skillet until they were fragrant and golden brown. The toasting process released their natural oils and intensified their nutty flavor, adding a delicious crunch to the dish. I watched in awe as she expertly tossed them in the skillet, the aroma filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering scent.

As the beans and walnuts cooled, Rose prepared the dressing for the dish. She whisked together freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and a touch of honey, creating a zesty and tangy vinaigrette that would perfectly complement the other ingredients. The bright flavors of the lemon paired beautifully with the earthy walnuts and tender green beans, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture.

Once everything was ready, Rose carefully tossed the green beans and walnuts in the dressing, ensuring that each ingredient was coated evenly. The vibrant colors of the dish mingled together, creating a beautiful and appetizing presentation that made my mouth water in anticipation.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of the Lemon-Walnut Green Beans and was instantly transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before. The crispness of the beans, the crunch of the walnuts, and the tangy sweetness of the dressing all melded together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was truly unforgettable.

From that moment on, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, delighting in the smiles and compliments that it never failed to elicit. Every time I prepared it, I would think back to that warm summer day in Rose's kitchen and the magical moment when I first discovered the wonders of Lemon-Walnut Green Beans.

Years passed, and I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques to elevate this beloved recipe even further. I shared it with friends, neighbors, and anyone who would listen, spreading the joy and deliciousness of Rose's creation to all who crossed my path.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing a fresh batch of Lemon-Walnut Green Beans for a family dinner, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this moment. The memories of that fateful day with Rose still linger in my mind, inspiring me to create dishes that not only nourish the body but also warm the soul.

And as I take my first bite of the Lemon-Walnut Green Beans, savoring the vibrant flavors and textures that dance on my taste buds, I can't help but smile. For in that moment, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and spirit. And for that, I am truly thankful.