As I stood in my kitchen, the nutty scent of browned butter wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite bistro. What if I could recreate that gourmet allure at home? Enter Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah—a quick and delightful side dish that elevates any meal with just five simple ingredients. Not only is this recipe vegetarian and gluten-free, but it also offers a versatile canvas for customization, allowing you to swap in your favorite nuts or spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, you’ll find it’s both crowd-pleasing and a breeze to whip up. So, what flavor twist will you add to make it your own?
Why are Browned Butter Green Beans amazing?
Simplicity at Its Finest: This recipe requires just five ingredients, making it a quick and easy option for any meal.
Rich, Nutty Flavor: The toasted hazelnuts paired with browned butter create a deliciously decadent taste that will leave your guests craving more.
Versatile Customization: Feel free to experiment! Swap hazelnuts for almonds or pecans, or infuse the green beans with roasted garlic for added richness.
Vibrant & Colorful: Bright green beans retain their crispness and vibrant color, making your plate pop with freshness.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for both casual dinners and festive feasts, this dish is sure to impress any crowd, whether served alongside a succulent pork tenderloin or fresh grilled lemon-herb chicken.
Elevate your side dish repertoire with these scrumptious Peanut Butter Jelly bars for an extra sweet touch!
Browned Butter Green Beans Ingredients
For the Green Beans
- Fresh Green Beans – Choose crisp, vibrant green beans for the best texture and flavor.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich and creamy base; use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the dish; regular salt can work just as well.
- Orange Zest – Adds a delightful brightness; lemon zest is a great substitute if you prefer.
For the Hazelnut Dukkah
- Hazelnuts – Offers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; swap with almonds for a different taste.
- Everything Bagel Spice – Delivers a savory blend; feel free to make your own spice mix!
- Garam Masala – Infuses warmth and depth; curry powder can be used in its place or just omit it.
Get ready to create these delectable Browned Butter Green Beans and impress your guests with a gourmet side that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Browned Butter Green Beans
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will prepare the perfect environment for toasting the hazelnuts, enhancing their natural flavor and crunch. Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper will make cleanup easier. While the oven heats, you can prepare the hazelnuts.
Step 2: Toast the Hazelnuts
Spread the hazelnuts evenly on the baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Toast for 8 to 10 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as they can turn quickly. Once done, allow them to cool slightly before chopping them finely for the dukkah.
Step 3: Prepare the Dukkah Mix
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped, cooled hazelnuts with Everything Bagel Spice, garam masala, and kosher salt. Stir the mixture until it’s well combined, and set it aside. This Hazelnut Dukkah will add a wonderful flavor boost to your Browned Butter Green Beans.
Step 4: Blanch the Green Beans
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh green beans and blanch them for about 4 minutes, ensuring they remain crisp and vibrant. After blanching, immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their bright green color and crunch.
Step 5: Brown the Butter
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Allow it to cook until it turns a dark amber color and develops a rich, nutty aroma, which will take about 4-5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning, as the key to delicious Browned Butter Green Beans is achieving that perfect golden hue.
Step 6: Sauté the Green Beans
Once the butter is browned, add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are heated through and start to brown slightly. The combination of the nutty butter and tender green beans creates a deliciously savory flavor.
Step 7: Serve with Dukkah and Zest
Transfer the sautéed green beans to a serving platter and generously sprinkle the prepared hazelnut dukkah over the top. For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of fresh orange zest. The combination of the nutty dukkah and the zesty finish will make your Browned Butter Green Beans truly irresistible.
Browned Butter Green Beans Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish! Let your imagination run wild with flavors and textures that excite your palate.
- Nut Alternatives: Swap hazelnuts for almonds or pecans to explore new flavors and textures. Each nut brings its own charm—almonds add a crunchy bite, while pecans offer a buttery richness.
- Garlic Infusion: Infuse sautéed green beans with roasted garlic or shallots for a delightful depth of flavor. You’ll love how the aromatic garlic transforms the dish into a savory masterpiece.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat—perfect for those who crave a bit of excitement! Just a pinch can elevate this side dish into something exhilarating.
- Crunchy Seeds: Incorporate toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition. They not only give texture but also complement the nuttiness of the dukkah beautifully.
- Fresh Herb Finish: Enhance the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. Their vibrant flavors will add brightness and a touch of elegance to your green beans.
- Citrus Twist: Swap orange zest for lemon zest to brighten the dish with a tangy twist. The refreshing change will be a delightful surprise for your taste buds!
- Custom Spice Mix: Replace the Everything Bagel Spice with your homemade spice blend. This gives you complete control over the flavor profile, making it uniquely yours.
- Vegan Delight: For a completely vegan version, substitute butter with vegan butter or even olive oil for a lighter option. It still results in a flavor-packed green bean dish.
With these variations, you’ll never get bored of your Browned Butter Green Beans! And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, don’t forget to check out these scrumptious Peanut Butter Oatmeal bars for a sweet treat.
Expert Tips for Browned Butter Green Beans
-
Watch the Butter: Keep a close eye on the butter while browning to prevent it from burning; once it starts to turn amber, act quickly!
-
Perfectly Blanched Beans: To achieve that lovely crispness, avoid overcooking the green beans during blanching; they should remain vibrant and tender.
-
Stir Often: While sautéing the green beans, stir frequently for even browning and to prevent them from sticking to the skillet.
-
Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or spices in your hazelnut dukkah—just remember to stick with flavors that complement the brown butter.
-
Add Zest Last: For the brightest flavor, add the fresh orange (or lemon) zest just before serving; it enhances the dish beautifully without losing its freshness.
What to Serve with Browned Butter Green Beans?
Enhance your meal experience by complementing the sumptuous flavors of this delightful side dish.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich and smooth texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the nutty crunch of the green beans, creating a comforting harmony.
-
Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken: Juicy chicken infused with zesty herbs beautifully balances the earthy flavors of the browned butter greens, making every bite a joy.
-
Baked Salmon: The flaky tenderness of salmon contrasts well with the crispy dukkah and vibrant green beans, adding a gourmet touch to any dinner.
-
Garlic Parmesan Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with garlic and parmesan brings a warm, savory note that complements the dish, offering a delightful textural contrast.
-
Roasted Pork Tenderloin: The savory, succulent quality of pork tenderloin enhances the rich nuttiness of the green beans, creating a robust, satisfying plate.
-
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tangy vinaigrette brightens the meal, providing freshness amidst the richness of the sides.
-
Sparkling Lemonade: As a refreshing drink option, the citrus notes from sparkling lemonade awaken your palate, rounding off the flavors beautifully.
-
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse brings a sweet closure to the meal, contrasting intriguingly with the savory green beans.
Storage Tips for Browned Butter Green Beans
Fridge: Store leftover Browned Butter Green Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their flavor and texture, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Freezer: You can freeze the green beans for up to 2 months. Blanch them before freezing to preserve their vibrant color and crunch. Reheating directly after defrosting ensures they remain tasty.
Reheating: To reheat, place the green beans in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water to steam them for a few minutes, restoring some of their original crispness.
Make-Ahead: For added convenience, blanch the green beans and toast the hazelnuts up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers for quick assembly when you’re ready to serve.
Make Ahead Options
These Browned Butter Green Beans are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can blanch the green beans and toast the hazelnuts up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring both maintain their vibrant color and crunch. Simply store the blanched green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator and the hazelnuts in a cool, dry place. When you’re ready to serve, just heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add your browned butter, sauté the prepared green beans for about 4-5 minutes until warmed through, and finish with the hazelnut dukkah and a sprinkle of orange zest for that restaurant-quality touch. Enjoy the ease of a gourmet side without the fuss on busy weeknights!
Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best green beans?
Absolutely! When selecting green beans, look for fresh, bright green beans that are firm and crisp. Avoid beans with dark spots or limpness, as these are signs of aging. If possible, choosing organic options can enhance the flavor and freshness as well. Snap peas or asparagus are wonderful alternatives if you want a different twist.
What’s the best way to store leftover Browned Butter Green Beans?
For optimal freshness, store leftover Browned Butter Green Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain their flavor and texture, try to consume them quickly. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to revive some of their original crispness.
Can I freeze Browned Butter Green Beans?
Certainly! To freeze the green beans, blanch them first by boiling for about 4 minutes, then plunging them into an ice bath. This helps to lock in their vibrant color and crispness. Once cool, drain and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge or microwave, and sauté briefly to reheat.
How can I prevent my butter from burning while making this dish?
Very! To prevent burning the butter while achieving that glorious browned state, keep a watchful eye as it cooks. Start with medium-high heat and stir gently. The butter will change from yellow to a golden amber color—this is your cue! Remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches that dark amber shade, and remember to act quickly while sautéing to avoid burning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is both vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. If you or your guests have nut allergies, consider substituting the hazelnuts with sunflower seeds or even crispy chickpeas. Additionally, using vegan butter will easily make this dish dairy-free. Always check spice blends to ensure they are gluten-free!
Can I make the Hazelnut Dukkah in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the Hazelnut Dukkah up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature; just give it a quick shake before using to re-mix the ingredients. This way, you’re ready to sprinkle it on your Browned Butter Green Beans when it’s time to serve!
Savory Browned Butter Green Beans with Crunchy Hazelnuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread hazelnuts evenly on the baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- In a bowl, combine finely chopped, cooled hazelnuts with Everything Bagel Spice, garam masala, and kosher salt. Stir until well combined.
- Blanch green beans in a large pot of boiling salted water for about 4 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.
- Melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until it turns a dark amber color and develops a nutty aroma, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add blanched green beans to the skillet. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until heated through and browned slightly.
- Transfer sautéed green beans to a serving platter, sprinkle with hazelnut dukkah, and garnish with fresh orange zest.
Leave a Reply