Roasted Lemon-Parmesan Green Beans
This simple yet elegant side dish features tender-crisp green beans roasted to perfection, brightened with fresh lemon juice, and finished with a savory sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold water. Trim the tough stem ends; you can leave the tail ends on or trim them as well for a neater appearance. Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
In a large bowl, combine the trimmed green beans with the olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well until the beans are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
Spread the seasoned green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded; if necessary, use two baking sheets to allow them to roast rather than steam.
Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are tender-crisp and slightly blistered or browned in spots. For even cooking, shake the pan gently halfway through the roasting time.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Immediately squeeze the juice from half of the lemon evenly over the hot beans. You can add more lemon juice later if desired.
Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the beans. Toss gently on the baking sheet to combine the cheese and lemon with the beans.
Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if desired. Serve hot as a delicious and healthy side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcrowd the pan: Spreading the beans in a single layer is crucial for roasting. If they're piled up, they'll steam and become soggy instead of crisp.
- 2Use fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and provides a superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- 3Pat beans dry: Excess moisture on the green beans will prevent them from browning and crisping up properly in the oven.
- 4Adjust roasting time: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your beans; they should be tender-crisp with some browned spots, not mushy or burnt.
Adapt it for your goals.
Garlic & Herb
Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1/2 tsp of dried Italian herbs (like oregano or thyme) to the beans before roasting for an aromatic twist.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Sprinkle 1/4 tsp of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper before roasting to add a pleasant heat.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Toss in 2 tbsp of toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts with the Parmesan cheese for added texture and nutty flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Green beans are an excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A, which are essential for bone health, immune function, and vision.
Good Source of Fiber
High in dietary fiber, green beans aid in digestion, promote satiety, and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Properties
Lemon and green beans both contain antioxidants that help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, contributing to overall health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Thaw them completely and pat them very dry before tossing with oil and seasonings. They might take a few minutes longer to roast and may be slightly less crisp than fresh beans.
