The moment you take your first bite of Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah, you’ll understand why this dish has become a staple in my kitchen. The warm, nutty aroma of browned butter fills the air, instantly elevating the humble green bean into a gourmet experience. Just picture those tender yet crisp beans, luxuriously coated in a rich, golden sauce and crowned with crunchy hazelnuts and fragrant spices.
This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick fix for busy weeknights and festive gatherings. With just five ingredients, you’ll whip up a side dish that impresses everyone without the hassle. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and can easily be made dairy-free if needed – making it a versatile addition to any meal. Whether it’s a simple family dinner or a holiday celebration, these green beans are the perfect way to add a burst of flavor and texture to your plate. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Why Are Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah So Special?
Simplicity shines through with only five ingredients, making it easy for anyone to master this dish. Irresistible flavor comes from the nutty brown butter and crunchy hazelnut dukkah, creating a gourmet experience. Versatile options allow you to customize with different nuts and spices, perfect for any palate. Quick preparation means you can impress guests in under 30 minutes! Crowd-pleaser status makes it suitable for both simple weeknight dinners and festive occasions. If you’re looking for a delightful addition to your meal, try these other flavorful side dishes!
Browned Butter Green Beans Ingredients
• Elevate your cooking with these essential components!
For the Dukkah
- Hazelnuts – Adds crunch and nutty flavor; substitute with almonds for a different nutty profile.
- Everything Bagel Spice – Provides a savory blend of flavors including sesame and garlic; can replace with a homemade mix of sesame seeds and garlic powder.
- Garam Masala – Adds warmth and complexity; substitute with curry powder or omit for a milder flavor.
For the Green Beans
- Fresh Green Beans – The primary vegetable, providing crisp texture; snap peas or asparagus can be great alternatives.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; regular salt works just as well.
- Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and flavor; to make it dairy-free, use vegan butter or olive oil.
- Orange Zest – Adds brightness and aroma; lemon zest can be an excellent substitute for a citrus twist.
Dive into this exquisite Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also brighten any meal!
How to Make Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures the hazelnuts will toast to perfection, enhancing their flavor for your dukkah mix.
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Toast hazelnuts on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes until they’re fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool, then rub off the skins and finely chop them for that crunchy texture.
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Combine the chopped hazelnuts in a bowl with Everything Bagel Spice, garam masala, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This savory blend will give your dukkah its irresistible flavor.
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Blanch the trimmed green beans in boiling water for 4 minutes. After that, transfer them to an ice bath to cool immediately, then drain and dry thoroughly to ensure they remain crisp.
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Melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until it turns a dark amber color and exudes a nutty aroma. This is the magic of browned butter!
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Sauté the green beans in the skillet for 4-5 minutes until they’re heated through and slightly browned. Season them with the remaining salt to enhance their flavor.
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Serve the green beans elegantly topped with the hazelnut dukkah and a sprinkle of fresh orange zest to brighten up the dish.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of extra browned butter for a richer taste.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!
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Nutty Twist: Swap hazelnuts for almonds or pecans to explore new flavors and textures that complement the green beans beautifully.
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Garlic Infusion: Toss in roasted garlic or shallots while sautéing for a rich, aromatic depth that elevates the dish to new heights.
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Spiced Upgrade: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that contrasts with the nutty sweetness of the browned butter.
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Veggie Add-In: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or crispy shallots on top for added crunch and flavor, transforming your green beans into a sensational medley.
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Citrus Remix: Try lemon or lime zest instead of orange for a bright, zesty kick that brings a refreshing twist to the dish.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil to easily adapt this recipe for a dairy-free diet.
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Crunch Factor: Add toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for an unexpected texture boost that makes the dish even more delightful.
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Herbaceous Note: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top before serving for an aromatic and vibrant finish that brightens every bite.
What to Serve with Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah?
Create a memorable meal by pairing these exquisite green beans with delightful accompaniments that enhance their nutty flavor and richness.
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Roasted Pork Tenderloin: Juicy and savory, it complements the green beans perfectly while adding a hearty protein element to your plate.
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Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken: The zesty brightness from the chicken harmonizes beautifully with the richness of the green beans, creating a well-rounded dish.
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Baked Salmon: The buttery, flaky salmon meshes wonderfully with the crunchy dukkah, bringing a fresh and flaky contrast.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, velvety texture provides a comforting backdrop, allowing the green beans’ crunch and flavor to shine even more.
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Couscous Salad: The light and fluffy couscous offers a pleasant contrast, while the herbs can enhance the flavors of the green beans for an elevated experience.
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Warm Bread Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for mopping up any remnants of brown butter, making every bite irresistible.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio will refresh your palate and complement the dish’s nutty tones.
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Chocolate Tart: For dessert, this rich and decadent treat offers a satisfying end to a splendid meal, leaving your guests raving about the feast.
Expert Tips for Browned Butter Green Beans
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Perfectly Toasted Hazelnuts: Ensure you toast the hazelnuts evenly to bring out their full flavor; watch closely to prevent burning.
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Blanching is Key: Blanching the green beans is essential for maintaining their vibrant color and crisp texture; don’t skip this step to avoid mushy beans.
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Keep it Moving: Stir the sautéed green beans frequently in the skillet; this helps prevent sticking and enables even browning for a delightful presentation.
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Flavorful Substitutions: Feel free to substitute hazelnuts with almonds or other nuts to create unique variations of the Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah.
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Don’t Rush the Butter: Allow the butter to brown slowly over medium-high heat; this process unlocks its nutty aroma, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
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Brighten Up with Citrus: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding an additional squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving to elevate the dish.
How to Store and Freeze Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating in a skillet will help retain the ideal texture, ensuring they don’t become soggy.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sautéed green beans (without the dukkah) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet before serving.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a touch of water or additional butter to revive the dish’s flavors and moisture, making your Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah almost as delightful as when freshly made.
- Airtight Guidance: Always ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of your green beans and dukkah mix.
Make Ahead Options
These Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah are perfect for meal prep! You can blanch the green beans and toast the hazelnuts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. For the dukkah, mix the chopped hazelnuts with the spices and store it covered at room temperature to keep the flavors intact. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the blanched green beans in the browned butter for 4-5 minutes until heated through and slightly browned. You’ll have a restaurant-quality side dish with minimal effort, ideal for your busy weeknights!
Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select fresh green beans?
Absolutely! Look for vibrant green beans that are firm to the touch. Avoid those with dark spots or a wrinkled appearance, which indicates they are past their prime. The fresher your beans, the more crisp and delicious your dish will be!
How should I store leftovers of Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To retain the best texture when reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or more butter to keep them moist and delicious!
Can I freeze Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah?
Yes! To freeze, first sauté the green beans without the dukkah mix. Allow them to cool, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
What should I do if my browned butter burns?
Very! If you notice your butter burning while cooking, immediately remove it from the heat and let it cool for a moment before continuing. You can either strain out the burnt bits or start fresh with another batch. Always keep an eye on it as it cooks; it can go from perfectly browned to burnt quickly!
Are there any dietary considerations for Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah?
This dish is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. For those who are dairy-sensitive or vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil. Make sure to check your Everything Bagel Spice ingredients, as some blends may contain gluten.
How can I enhance the flavor of my green beans?
To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a bit of freshly cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. You can also mix in additional vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or crispy shallots to elevate your Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah into a vibrant medley!
Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Toast hazelnuts on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Combine the chopped hazelnuts in a bowl with Everything Bagel Spice, garam masala, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Blanch the trimmed green beans in boiling water for 4 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath.
- Melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until dark amber and nutty aroma is released.
- Sauté the green beans in the skillet for 4-5 minutes until heated through and slightly browned.
- Serve the green beans topped with the hazelnut dukkah and a sprinkle of fresh orange zest.