Roasted Green Beans with Hazelnuts
A quick and elegant side dish, these crisp-tender roasted green beans are tossed with crunchy, toasted hazelnuts and brightened with a hint of fresh lemon.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Wash the green beans thoroughly. Snap or cut off the tough stem ends. You can leave the tail ends on or trim them as well, according to your preference.
In a large bowl, combine the trimmed green beans, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss well to ensure the beans are evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded; use two baking sheets if necessary to prevent steaming and encourage proper roasting.
Roast for 10 minutes. Then, remove the baking sheet from the oven, add the chopped hazelnuts, and toss gently with the green beans.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 5-8 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp and slightly blistered, and the hazelnuts are fragrant and lightly toasted. Keep a close eye on the hazelnuts to prevent burning.
Once roasted to your liking, transfer the green beans and hazelnuts to a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh lemon zest and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
Toss gently to combine the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Serve immediately as a warm and vibrant side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crispy beans, ensure they are spread in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet. Air circulation is key for roasting, not steaming.
- 2Hazelnuts can burn quickly. If you prefer, toast them separately in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, then add to the roasted beans at the very end.
- 3Don't overcook the green beans; they should retain a slight crispness (al dente) for the best texture. Roasting times can vary based on your oven and the thickness of the beans.
- 4Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the seasonings for a subtle kick of heat.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbaceous Twist
Add 1 teaspoon of fresh chopped thyme or rosemary along with the green beans before roasting for an aromatic variation.
Cheesy IndulgenceCheesy Indulgence
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese over the green beans during the last 2-3 minutes of roasting, or just before serving, for a savory, umami boost.
Balsamic GlazeBalsamic Glaze
Drizzle a teaspoon of balsamic glaze over the finished dish for a sweet and tangy counterpoint.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Green beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Both green beans and hazelnuts are packed with antioxidants, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Vitamin A, which help protect cells from damage and support overall immune function.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Hazelnuts contribute beneficial monounsaturated fats, which are known to help lower bad cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh green beans are preferred for their texture, you can use frozen. Thaw them completely and pat them very dry before tossing with oil and seasonings to prevent them from becoming soggy during roasting.
