This green bean side dish is easy to make, packed with flavor, and absolutely stunning on the plate. The combination of crunchy green beans, sweet red onions, and pistachios makes every bite packed full of flavor. Whether you're serving it at a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Green Beans – Crisp and fresh, they provide the perfect texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Red Onion – Adds a touch of sweetness and a mild bite that balances the dish.
- Pistachios – Crunchy and nutty, they enhance the dish with texture and depth.
- Fresh Herbs – Brighten up the dish with fresh, aromatic flavors.
- Olive Oil & Lemon Juice – The perfect pairing to bring everything together with a light, zesty finish.
How To Make This Green Bean Side Dish
- Blanch the Green Beans: Cook them quickly in boiling water until just tender, then transfer to an ice bath to lock in color and texture.
- Sauté the Onions: Cook sliced red onions in olive oil until they soften and become slightly sweet.
- Toast the Pistachios: Lightly toast chopped pistachios in a dry pan to enhance their crunch and flavor.
- Combine and Finish: Toss everything together with a splash of lemon juice, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature.
What to Serve with This Recipe
Looking for the perfect pairings? Try these delicious side dishes:
- Cauliflower Steak – A hearty and satisfying option that adds another layer of texture to your meal.
- Perfect Roasted Sweet Potato – A naturally sweet and caramelized contrast to the fresh green beans.
- Steamed Artichoke – A tender, flavorful side that complements the nuttiness of the pistachios.
If you’re looking for a fresh take on a green bean side dish, this recipe is the perfect choice. The mix of flavors and textures will keep everyone coming back for more. Try it out, rate the recipe, share it with friends, and let me know what you think in the comments!
PrintGreen Beans with Red Onion, Pistachios, and Herbs
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 8 mins
- Total Time: 23 mins
- Yield: 4 as a side 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, tipped and tailed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
- 2 tablespoons flat leaf parsley
- ¼ cup pistachio meal (See note)
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Maldon salt for garnish,optional
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with paper towels and bring a very large pot of water to a rolling boil.
- While the water comes to a boil, melt the butter with the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the red onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions start to soften. Stir in the cilantro, parsley, and pistachio meal; continue cooking for 1-2 minutes more until the herbs are fragrant and the pistachio meal is beginning to turn golden brown. Remove from the heat.
- When the water reaches a rolling boil add 1 tablespoon of salt and the beans. Cook the beans until they are tender-firm, about 2-3 minutes. Drain the beans and spread them out on the prepared baking sheet. Blot the beans with the paper towels to dry then lay them on a serving platter and top with the pistachio mixture. Serve immediately.
Notes
To make pistachio meal coarsely grind pistachios in a food processor until tey reach the desired consistency.
Corina says
I never thought green beans could look so enticing! It sounds like a wonderful side dish.
Meg says
Thanks so much Corina! It really does make a nice addition to a meal:)
Gaby says
Looks amazing!!! What a perfect summer dish!!
Brittany says
This look fantastic! If we get more fresh green beans from Isaac's parents' garden I know what I'll be making.
Meg says
I hope you get more beans Brittany!! This green bean dish is SO good:)
dixya@food, pleasure, and health says
i underestimate green beans but you have taken it to a whole another level - yummmm
Meg says
Dixya, you will LOVE these! I have always underestimated them too...never anymore.