Spicy Bean Toss
A vibrant, cheesy bean stir-fry with peppers, onions, and olives, perfect as a quick side dish for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 9 oz. package frozen Italian green beans, thawed and drained ⓘ
- 1 cup red or green pepper strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 Tbsp. Parkay margarine ⓘ
- 8 3/4 oz. can garbanzo beans, drained ⓘ
- 1/3 cup pitted ripe olive slices
- 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 pound Velveeta pasteurized process cheese spread, cubed ⓘ
- 1/4 cup milk ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large skillet, stir-fry Italian green beans, pepper strips, and sliced onion in margarine until crisp-tender.
- Add drained garbanzo beans, olive slices, and Italian seasoning; mix lightly.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add cubed Velveeta cheese spread and milk; stir until the cheese spread is melted and the mixture is creamy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the stir-fry. If you don't have Velveeta on hand, cream cheese or a melted cheese blend can work as substitutes, although the texture will differ. Feel free to use fresh green beans instead of frozen for a crunchier bite. Incorporating fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spicy Bean Toss as a vibrant side dish to grilled meats or as a hearty vegetarian main. It pairs beautifully with Diana'S Sweet Potato Pie, creating a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, but be cautious not to overheat, as the cheese can become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Bean Toss contains roughly 354 calories, with 10g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 609mg per serving (26% 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 beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh Italian green beans. Just be sure to trim and blanch them briefly before stir-frying to maintain their crisp texture. Fresh beans will add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the Parkay margarine with a plant-based butter and use a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of Velveeta. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Ensure the milk is replaced with a plant-based milk like almond or oat.
What can I serve this dish with?
This Spicy Bean Toss pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a side of crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, or even as a topping for baked potatoes for a comforting and filling option.
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).