Dijon green beans are a tasty and bright side dish that’s super easy to make! Just toss fresh green beans with a zingy Dijon mustard sauce and a hint of garlic for extra flavor.
I love how the crispy beans and creamy sauce come together. It’s a hit at dinner parties, and you can whip it up in no time after a long day! Perfect with any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are essential for that vibrant color and crisp texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen green beans work as a decent substitute. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since they’re already blanched.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon brings a tangy flavor. If you prefer something milder, yellow mustard can substitute, but the taste will change. For a unique twist, try whole grain mustard for added texture.
Olive Oil or Butter: Both add richness to the dish, but if you’re looking for a lower fat option, consider cooking spray or a small amount of vegetable broth for sautéing.
Sliced Almonds: Almonds provide a lovely crunch. If you’re nut-free, you can swap them with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for that similar texture. Toasting them beforehand levels up the flavor!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is the best choice for a bright flavor. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of vinegar (like apple cider or white wine) can work well though it’s not the same!
How Do I Keep My Green Beans Bright and Crisp?
To maintain that beautiful green color and crispness in your green beans, blanching is key. This process involves cooking them briefly in boiling water and then shocking them in ice water.
- Boil your salted water and add the green beans for 3-4 minutes.
- Once they turn bright green, quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking and locks in that color.
- After a few minutes, drain the beans again and pat them dry to remove excess water before sautéing.
This method keeps your green beans vibrant and perfectly tender, making your dish not only tasty but also visually appealing!
How to Make Dijon Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Green Beans:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
For the Flavor:
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or almond slivers
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- Lemon wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for a quick but impressive addition to any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add in the trimmed green beans and cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be brightly colored and just tender. Then, quickly drain the beans and plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and keeps them looking vibrant. After a few minutes, drain again and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. The smell will be fantastic!
3. Add Garlic and Prepare the Sauce:
Next, toss in the chopped garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant but not browned. Now it’s time to stir in the Dijon mustard and the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix it well to create a nice sauce.
4. Combine the Green Beans:
Add the drained green beans into the skillet and toss them with the mustard sauce until they’re nicely coated. This is where the magic happens!
5. Finish with Almonds and Seasoning:
Sprinkle the sliced almonds, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick) over the green beans. Season them with salt and black pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together to combine.
6. Warm Everything Through:
Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes so that all the flavors meld together and the dish is warmed through. You’re almost there!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully transfer the Dijon green beans to a serving dish. Garnish with lemon wedges for a pop of color and serve them warm. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but they may not have the same crisp texture as fresh ones. If using frozen, be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may require less blanching time compared to fresh beans.
What Can I Use Instead of Dijon Mustard?
If you’re out of Dijon mustard, yellow mustard is an alternative, but it will taste milder. For a different flavor profile, using whole grain mustard can add a nice texture and taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Dijon green beans can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little water to prevent sticking.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even carrots for extra flavor and color. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
