Green Beans with a Mountain of Panko

Introduction

Green Beans with a Mountain of Panko is a delightful dish that thrives on simplicity and flavor. This recipe showcases fresh green beans tossed with a creamy tahini yogurt sauce, then generously topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs. It’s an interesting twist on a classic side dish, making it the perfect addition to any meal.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make this recipe. First, it is very easy to prepare, requiring only a handful of ingredients. Second, the combination of textures—from the crisp green beans to the creamy sauce and crunchy panko—creates a delightful eating experience. Finally, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that’s both satisfying and visually appealing?

How to Make Green Beans with a Mountain of Panko

Creating this dish is straightforward. With just a few steps, you can transform ordinary green beans into something special. Just follow the directions below to make this scrumptious side dish.

Ingredients

700 g / 1.4 lb green beans (ends trimmed)
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup plain yogurt
2 1/2 tbsp tahini
1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (or 1 tbsp clear vinegar)
1 garlic clove (finely grated)
1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt
3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/8 tsp cooking/kosher salt
1/4 cup parmesan (finely grated)

Directions

Cook beans: Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add the green beans, let it come back to a boil, and cook for 2 minutes. Drain the beans in a colander. Rinse them under cold running water for about 10 seconds to stop the cooking.
Season: Spread the beans on a clean tea towel and pat them dry with another towel. Transfer the beans to a bowl, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Panko Mountain: Mix the panko breadcrumbs with some salt and olive oil in a bowl. Preheat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the panko mixture and stir it for about 4-5 minutes until it turns golden brown. Transfer it back to a bowl and let it cool.
Whipped Tahini Yogurt: In a heat-proof bowl, whisk together yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Microwave the mixture for 20 seconds, then whisk again for 10 seconds until it looks like softly whipped cream. You can use it right away or let it come to room temperature.
Assemble: Spread the green beans on a plate, pour the tahini yogurt sauce over them, and pile on the crunchy panko. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Green Beans with a Mountain of Panko

This dish can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a larger vegetarian spread. Presenting it on a colorful plate can make it even more appetizing.

How to Store Green Beans with a Mountain of Panko

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the panko’s crunchiness, it’s best to keep it separate from the sauce and beans until ready to eat again. Consume the leftovers within 2-3 days.

Tips to Make Green Beans with a Mountain of Panko

Ensure the green beans are fresh and not overcooked to maintain their bright color and crunch.
Feel free to customize the sauce by adding spices or herbs to match your taste.
For a gluten-free version, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Variation

You can experiment by adding different toppings such as chopped nuts or herbs for extra flavor and texture. You might also try using different types of green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just ensure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
What can I substitute for tahini?
- You can use mild peanut butter or sunflower butter as a substitute for tahini if needed.
How can I make this dish vegan?
- Substitute the plain yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and omit or replace Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative.