Savory Green Beans With Croutons
Savory green beans with crispy croutons and aromatic seasonings offer a delightful side perfect for casual dinners or gatherings, highlighting fresh flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the green beans in boiling water for 7 minutes until just tender.
- Drain the beans in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool.
- Sauté the toasted croutons in butter until lightly browned.
- Add minced scallion or onion, summer savory leaves, and salt to the croutons in the pan.
- Combine the cooked green beans with the seasoned croutons and heat through.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the finished dish. If you don't have summer savory, thyme or oregano can be good substitutes. To save time, use pre-washed green beans or frozen ones, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. This dish pairs wonderfully with recipes like Grandma Dorr'S White Bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these savory green beans as a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted chicken. They also make a great accompaniment to vegetarian recipes like stuffed bell peppers. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover green beans with croutons can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a touch of butter if needed to restore the croutons' crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the croutons soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Green Beans With Croutons contains roughly 626 calories, with 20g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (76% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 926mg per serving (40% 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 frozen green beans for this recipe?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw them and adjust the cooking time to about 5 minutes in boiling water until heated through. This will help maintain their vibrant color and texture.
What can I substitute for croutons?
If you don't have croutons, you can use toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch. Alternatively, consider using crushed crackers or even crispy chickpeas for a different texture. Each option will add its unique flavor to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Ensure the croutons are also vegan-friendly, as some store-bought varieties may contain dairy. These easy adjustments will keep the dish delicious and plant-based.
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).