Prepare to transform the humble green bean into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This isn't just another vegetable side dish - it's a flavor explosion that combines the nutty richness of brown butter, the delicate crunch of toasted pine nuts, and perfectly roasted green beans. In just 20 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy side that's so delicious, it might just steal the show from your main course.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
- Fresh lemon juice to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly under cold running water, then pat them completely dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Trim the ends of the green beans, removing any tough or discolored parts, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, allowing it to cook and develop a rich, golden-brown color and nutty aroma, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add pine nuts to the brown butter and toast them lightly, stirring constantly to prevent scorching, until they become fragrant and golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Place the trimmed green beans on a large baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Pour the brown butter and toasted pine nuts evenly over the green beans, tossing to coat completely.
- Season generously with salt, ensuring even distribution.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, shaking the baking sheet halfway through to promote even browning.
- Remove from oven when green beans are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized at the edges.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the roasted green beans just before serving to add brightness and enhance the flavors.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with additional toasted pine nuts if desired.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of roasting: Make sure your green beans are completely dry before roasting to achieve that perfect caramelized exterior.
- Watch your brown butter carefully: The line between perfectly brown and burnt is thin. Remove from heat the moment the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty.
- Use a light-colored skillet when browning butter so you can accurately judge the color change.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give your green beans space to roast, not steam. Use a large sheet and spread them in a single layer.
- For extra flavor, experiment with adding a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes when seasoning.
- The lemon juice is crucial - it adds brightness that cuts through the richness of the brown butter and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 54mg
