We are a green bean loving household. Sometimes we like them cooked until snappy, other times softer in a cozy sabji, and occasionally we love them blistered for that boost of flavor, a slightly crispy texture, and the fact that they’re quick to make.
Blistered green beans are a simple way to elevate any weeknight meal, adding a golden, juicy pop of deliciousness. It’s the perfect side dish for just about any dinner plate, and the beauty is how easy it is to make with minimal effort.
For this blistered green beans recipe, I used frozen French green beans. These beans are thinner and shorter than traditional varieties, which makes them cook faster, but you can use whatever green beans you have on hand.
Just keep the difference in cook time in mind and adjust accordingly.
The best part about blistered beans is how versatile they are. You can toss them with vegan butter and a pinch of salt, or jazz them up with your favorite spices. They’re golden, slightly charred, and packed with flavor, making them perfect alongside just about anything from mashed potatoes to tempeh bacon.
Jump to:
Why You’ll Love This
- Blistered green beans are quick and easy: They take less than 15 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Golden, juicy, and flavorful: The high heat gives them a crispy exterior while keeping them tender inside.
- Versatile side dish: Pair them with just about anything from potatoes to plant-based proteins for a meal everyone will love.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Green beans: You can use frozen or fresh green beans for this recipe. French green beans are thinner and cook faster, but regular green beans work too if you adjust the time.
- Vegan butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor to the beans. You can substitute with olive oil or a high smoke point oil like avocado oil.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the beans. Feel free to add other seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika if desired.
Step-By-Step Recipe
- Heat your pan: Over medium-high heat, add your vegan butter or high smoke point oil to a non-stick or cast-iron skillet.
- Cook the green beans: Add the beans and toss to coat. Cook undisturbed for a few minutes, then toss and continue cooking until tender.
- Blister the beans: Crank the heat to high and cook, tossing occasionally, until the beans are golden and blistered. Add a pinch of salt and serve.
Tips for the Best Blistered Green Beans
- Use a high smoke point oil or vegan butter: This prevents burning while giving the beans a beautiful sear. Avocado oil is my favorite, but vegetable or canola oil work too.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If the beans are too crowded, they steam instead of blistering. Cook in batches if needed.
- Toss occasionally but not constantly: Let the beans sit for a few minutes before moving them. This helps achieve those golden, blistered spots.
What To Serve With Blistered Green Beans
Blistered green beans pair perfectly with a wide variety of plant-based sides. Try them with mashed potatoes, tofu “chicken,” buffalo cauliflower wings, air fryer red potatoes, lentil loaf, tempeh bacon, mushroom bacon, or fresh tomatoes.
They add a crispy, flavorful element that balances softer textures and mild flavors. They’re also perfect alongside a cozy sabji or even a hearty grain bowl. No matter what you pair them with, blistered beans bring a pop of color, flavor, and crunch to the plate.
How to Store Blistered Green Beans
Store leftover blistered beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for best results to maintain that slightly crispy texture.
Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them blistered and not soggy.
You can also toss them cold into a salad for a quick snack. If you make a larger batch, consider storing the beans separately from any sauces to maintain texture and flavor.
More Sides to Try
Did you try out this blistered green beans recipe? Please leave a comment below, share it, rate it, or tag a picture @plantbasedandbroke on Instagram and hashtag it #plantbasedandbroke. Show off that creation with us!
Blistered Green Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ pound frozen green beans
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter (or a high smoke point oil, we also love using avocado oil)
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter.
- Add the green beans and toss to coat. Cook undisturbed for 3 minutes, then toss and cook 3 more minutes.
- Turn the heat to high and cook, tossing occasionally, for 3–5 minutes until the beans are golden and blistered.
- Sprinkle with salt, toss, and serve.
Notes
- We’re using French green beans in this recipe, a slimmer and stumpy green bean variety. However, feel free to use any kind you want and adjust cook time accordingly.
- This recipe is for ½ pound of green beans.
How to Peel a Frozen Banana: 3 Easy Methods
Leave a Reply