Green beans are one of those vegetables that quietly earn a spot on every table, from holiday spreads to weeknight dinners. They’re quick to cook, affordable, and loved by almost everyone, from picky eaters to devoted veggie fans.

Whether you call them string beans, snap beans, or pole beans, these slender green beauties are endlessly adaptable. Plus recipes for haricots verts, the sleek French cousins of green beans. This collection of green bean recipes includes everything from fresh takes on the classic green bean casserole to new, bright sides that deserve a spot in your rotation all year long.

These fresh green bean recipes have all been met with great delight at my table. Some are takes on very traditional dishes (there is a modern take on the green bean and mushroom casserole with a crispy onion-ey topping — wait until you see how delicious this fresher version is!). And there are plenty of new ideas for your holiday meals, as well as weeknight dinners and easy entertaining.

More than a dozen green bean recipes to shake up the holidays or any dinner year-round. Some updates of old favorites mixed with some new and exciting options!

Why Green Beans Belong in Every Kitchen

Fresh green beans are a true kitchen MVP. They’re easy to prep, cook in minutes, and pair beautifully with everything from roast chicken to pasta to salmon. While frozen beans can work in a pinch, and canned beans bring old-school charm (especially in classic casseroles), fresh green beans are worth seeking out for their crisp bite and fresh, verdant flavor.

They also last for up to a week in the fridge, uncooked, so you can add them to any dinner menu when you need a green vegetable fast.

Tips for Cooking the Best Green Beans

• Don’t overcook: Stop boiling or steaming while they’re still bright green and crisp-tender.
• Ice bath: Shock-cooked green beans in ice water to preserve color and texture for salads.
• Fresh or frozen: If using frozen green beans, you should cook them straight from the freezer; no need to defrost.
• Read on for more tips on the best ways to prepare green beans!

Green Beans for the Holidays and Beyond

It’s hard to imagine Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner without something green and vegetal alongside all the rich dishes. But green beans aren’t just for holidays…they’re quick, nutritious, and very adaptable.

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11 Great Green Bean Recipes

Each of these recipes highlights green beans’ versatility, whether roasted, sauteed, steamed, or baked into something indulgent and nostalgic.

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