Ingredients

700 g (1.4 lb) green beans, ends trimmed

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 cup plain yogurt

2 1/2 tbsp tahini

1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (or substitute 1 tbsp clear vinegar)

1 garlic clove, finely grated

1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt (for sauce)

3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for toasting panko)

1/8 tsp cooking/kosher salt (for panko)

1/4 cup parmesan, finely grated (tightly packed)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and return to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes, then drain them in a colander. Rinse briefly under cold running water for about 10 seconds to stop the cooking. No need to use ice water.

Step 2: Spread the drained beans on a tea towel and dry them with a second towel. Transfer the beans to a bowl and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.

Step 3: Mix the panko breadcrumbs, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1/8 tsp salt, and grated parmesan in a bowl. Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the panko mixture and toast, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat and let cool in the bowl.

Step 4: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and 1/2 tsp salt. Microwave on high for 20 seconds, then whisk for another 10 seconds until the sauce resembles softly whipped cream. Use immediately or allow to come to room temperature.

Step 5: To serve, spread the green beans on a plate. Pour the whipped tahini yogurt sauce over the beans and generously sprinkle the toasted panko mixture on top. Enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh green beans that are bright and firm for the best texture.

If you don’t have a microwave, warm the yogurt sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat and whisk vigorously to achieve a similar texture.

For a nutty twist, add a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts to the panko mixture.

Substitute lemon juice with clear vinegar if preferred; it adds a sharper tang.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

While fresh green beans offer the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen beans if needed. Thaw and drain them well, then pat dry before seasoning and assembling.

How do I make sure the panko breadcrumbs stay crispy?

Toast the panko just before serving and store it separately from the beans and sauce. Combine the panko with the dish only right before eating to preserve its crunchy texture.