Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I whisked the last remnants of afternoon sunlight into my kitchen, I stumbled upon the perfect remedy for my dinner dilemma. Enter my Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah—a dish that effortlessly combines a few simple ingredients into something truly remarkable. This 5-ingredient recipe is not only a breeze to whip up in under 30 minutes but also a vibrant, vegetarian side that is sure to steal the show at any table. With its enticing blend of nutty hazelnuts and rich, browned butter, these green beans are a delightful twist on traditional fare. Who said side dishes had to be boring? Are you ready to give your meals a little extra crunch and flavor? Let’s dive in! Why are These Green Beans Unforgettable? Simplicity: This recipe shines with just 5 ingredients, making it quick and hassle-free for any home cook. Nutty Appeal: The hazelnut dukkah packs a flavorful punch that elevates ordinary green beans into a showstopper. Freshness Matters: Bright orange zest adds just the right citrusy kick, ensuring you savor every bite. Versatile Side: Pair these with anything from grilled fish to roasted pork or serve them as a centerpiece for a vegetarian meal. Don’t forget to check out my other favorites like Garlic Butter Shrimp for a complete feast! Time-Saving: Ready in under 30 minutes, you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal than slaving in the kitchen. Browned Butter Green Beans Ingredients For the Dukkah • Hazelnuts – Adds crunch and nutty flavor; substitute with toasted pecans or almonds if hazelnuts aren’t available. • Everything Bagel Spice – Provides savory, garlicky depth; a homemade version can be created or replaced with sesame seeds and garlic powder. • Garam Masala – Imparts warm spice notes; can be swapped with curry powder or omitted for milder flavors. For the Green Beans • Fresh Green Beans – The main vegetable; offers a crisp texture; snap off the ends before cooking, and frozen green beans can be used but require different cooking times. • Unsalted Butter – The key fat for browning, creating a rich flavor profile; can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. • Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors; sea salt can be used as an alternative. • Orange Zest – Adds a citrusy brightness; lemon zest can be used as a substitute. This is the perfect time to try out these Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah—a quick, healthy side dish that promises a delightful twist on your usual fare! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Step 1: Preheat the oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for toasting the hazelnuts, ensuring they become fragrant and slightly golden. You can use a rimmed baking sheet to prevent any spills as you toast the nuts. Your kitchen will soon be filled with delightful aromas as you prepare for this flavorful dish! Step 2: Toast the hazelnuts Spread the hazelnuts evenly on your prepared baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them as they can go from toasted to burnt quickly. They’ll be ready when they’re golden brown and fragrant. Once toasted, let them cool slightly before rubbing off the skins and finely chopping them for the dukkah. Step 3: Make the dukkah In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped hazelnuts with Everything Bagel Spice, garam masala, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir together until well mixed, creating a flavorful hazelnut dukkah that will provide a crunchy topping for your browned butter green beans. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the beans. Step 4: Prepare the green beans Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fresh green beans and cook them for 4 minutes, maintaining their crisp-tender texture. After cooking, quickly drain them and plunge them into an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. This will help preserve their vibrant color and crunch. Step 5: Brown the butter In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Allow it to cook for about 4-5 minutes, watching closely as it turns a deep amber color and develops a nutty aroma. This browned butter is the key to infusing richness into your Browned Butter Green Beans. Be careful not to let it burn! Step 6: Sauté the green beans Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the browned butter. Toss them gently to coat in the rich butter, sautéing for an additional 4-5 minutes until they’re heated through. Sprinkle the remaining salt over the green beans, enhancing their flavor as they absorb the buttery goodness. Step 7: Serve and garnish Transfer the sautéed green beans to a serving platter, creating a beautiful presentation. Generously sprinkle the hazelnut dukkah over the top for that irresistible crunch. Finish off your dish with a sprinkle of fresh orange zest, adding a bright, citrusy kick that completes these Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah. What to Serve with Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Elevate your dining experience by pairing these vibrant green beans with delicious complementary dishes for a complete and satisfying meal. Roasted Chicken: The savory flavors of roasted chicken bring out the nuttiness of the green beans while keeping your meal comforting and hearty. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, these mashed potatoes balance the crunch of the dukkah, creating a delightful texture contrast for every bite. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh vegetables adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the overall vibrant feel of your meal. The nuttiness of both dishes truly shines here. Stuffed Bell Peppers: The hearty filling of stuffed bell peppers complements the flavors of the green beans beautifully, making for a colorful and nutritious table. Grilled Salmon: Flaky, tender salmon pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savory notes of the beans, bringing health and elegance to your dinner. Crispy Tofu: For those embracing a vegetarian option, crispy tofu seasoned with your favorite spices offers a protein boost while harmonizing with the dukkah. Red Wine: A glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot, enhances the dish’s nuttiness without overpowering the flavors, making it an excellent companion. Lemon Sorbet: Finish your meal with a refreshing lemon sorbet. Its tart sweetness cleanses the palate after the delightful nuttiness of the green beans, wrapping up your dining experience perfectly. Expert Tips for Browned Butter Green Beans Perfect Crunch: Avoid overcooking the green beans by timing them carefully; they should be crisp-tender to maintain their lovely texture in the Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah. Watch the Butter: Keep a close eye on the butter while it browns; it can easily burn if left unattended. The ideal color is a rich amber that smells nutty. Make-Ahead Dukkah: Prepare the hazelnut dukkah in advance and store it in an airtight container. This lets the flavors meld beautifully and saves you time on busy nights. Zest It Up: Don’t skip the orange zest! It adds an essential brightness that balances the richness of the browned butter. Lemon zest is a fantastic substitute if you prefer. Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices in the dukkah. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes can create a unique twist. Serving Versatility: These beans pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside roasted meats or as part of a vibrant vegetarian spread. Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Variations Feel free to customize your dish with these fun twists and substitutes that will keep your palate intrigued! Nut Swap: Replace hazelnuts with pecans or walnuts to create different flavor profiles, adding cozy warmth and richness. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dukkah for heat or opt for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor sensation. A little heat can turn a sweet dish into something truly unforgettable! Citrusy Variation: Instead of orange zest, try a splash of lime juice for a zesty lift that will brighten your green beans. This tangy twist is sure to excite your taste buds! Herbal Infusion: Mix in some freshly chopped herbs (like parsley or dill) with the green beans while sautéing them to add a fresh, vibrant touch. Herbs can transform the profile of your dish, giving it a garden-fresh feel. Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a vegan alternative when you cook the beans for a rich, creamy texture that is irresistible. It brings a whole new depth of enjoyment! Dairy-Free Delight: Swap out the unsalted butter for vegan butter or olive oil, keeping everything hearty and healthy without sacrificing flavor. This way, everyone can indulge! Baked Variation: For a dose of crunch, spread the finished green beans on a baking sheet and broil them for a couple of minutes before serving. It adds a lovely crisp while enhancing flavors further. Explore More: If you love one-pot meals, check out my recipe for Chicken Green Bean that pairs perfectly with these green beans for a wholesome dinner! With these variations, your Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah will never be boring! How to Store and Freeze Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the sautéed green beans in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the green beans in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep them moist. Dukkah Storage: Keep leftover hazelnut dukkah in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature. It can also be frozen for longer-lasting use. Make Ahead Options These Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the hazelnut dukkah up to 3 days in advance, simply store it in an airtight container to maintain its crunch and flavor. Additionally, you can blanch the green beans and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before finishing the dish. When ready to serve, sauté the blanched green beans in the browned butter for about 4-5 minutes until heated through, and then top with the pre-made dukkah and fresh orange zest. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful, restaurant-quality side dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Recipe FAQs How do I select the best green beans? Choose fresh, vibrant green beans that are firm to the touch and snap easily when bent. Avoid those with dark spots or a wilted appearance, which may indicate age or spoilage. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover Browned Butter Green Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their crispiness and flavor. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to coax back their original texture. Can I freeze cooked green beans? Absolutely! To freeze, first cool down your sautéed green beans completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet. What can I do if my butter burns while browning? If your butter has burned, it’s best to start over. Burnt butter has a distinctive bitter taste that can overpower your dish. To prevent this, keep a close eye on it and swirl the pan occasionally. The goal is to achieve a rich, golden brown with a nutty aroma—definitely worth the vigilance! Does this recipe cater to allergies or dietary restrictions? Yes! This dish is vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free and dairy-free. Simply substitute unsalted butter with a vegan alternative for those avoiding dairy. Always check ingredient labels to ensure compliance with dietary needs, especially when making the Dukkah, as some spices or mixes may contain allergens. Can I prepare the hazelnut dukkah in advance? Very! In fact, I recommend making the hazelnut dukkah in advance to deepen the flavors. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or you can freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving! Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah: A Nutty Delight Explore Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah, a vibrant vegetarian side that combines simple ingredients into a remarkable dish in under 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: Best Recipe IdeasCuisine: VegetarianCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dukkah1 cup hazelnuts Adds crunch and nutty flavor; substitute with toasted pecans or almonds if hazelnuts aren't available.2 tablespoons Everything Bagel Spice Provides savory, garlicky depth; can be replaced with sesame seeds and garlic powder.1 teaspoon garam masala Imparts warm spice notes; can be swapped with curry powder or omitted for milder flavors.For the Green Beans1 pound fresh green beans The main vegetable; snap off the ends before cooking.4 tablespoons unsalted butter The key fat for browning; can be replaced with vegan butter.1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavors; sea salt can be used as an alternative.1 tablespoon orange zest Adds a citrusy brightness; lemon zest can be used as a substitute. Equipment SkilletBaking sheetMixing bowlLarge Pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Spread the hazelnuts evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.In a mixing bowl, combine chopped hazelnuts with Everything Bagel Spice, garam masala, and kosher salt.Boil a pot of salted water, add green beans, and cook for 4 minutes. Drain and plunge into an ice water bath.Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and nutty.Add blanched green beans to the skillet, toss to coat, and sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes.Serve the green beans on a platter, topping with hazelnut dukkah and a sprinkle of orange zest. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesThis dish is perfect paired with grilled fish or roasted pork, and can be customized with different spices in the dukkah. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
