Creamy Green Beans
Creamy Green Beans offers a delightful blend of tender green beans enriched with a creamy mushroom and pimiento sauce, accented by fresh lemon and herbs. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners or special occasions, it balances savory flavors with a touch of zest and herbs for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove wrappers from green bean boxes; place boxes in a flat baking dish and pierce with a fork.
- Microwave at high for 12 to 15 minutes, rearranging boxes once.
- Drain beans and place in a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Add remaining ingredients; mix well.
- Cover and microwave at high for 2 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you prefer fresh vegetables, substitute the frozen green beans with steamed fresh green beans. You can also enhance the flavor by adding minced garlic or onion powder. Adjust the spices according to your taste, using fresh basil or oregano if available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these creamy green beans as a delightful side dish for grilled chicken or fish. They pair beautifully with Saucy Budget Steak for a comforting meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added flavor. This dish is also a great addition to holiday meals or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the green bean mixture in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Green Beans contains roughly 31 calories, with 2g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin D (19% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh green beans. Just trim and cut them into bite-sized pieces, then steam or blanch them until tender before mixing with the other ingredients. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
What can I substitute for reduced calorie mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a similar creaminess without the calories. For a dairy-free alternative, use silken tofu blended until smooth as a substitute for mayonnaise.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Just ensure they are cooked to your desired tenderness before combining them with the green beans and creamy mixture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).