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Green Beans with a Mountain of Panko Recipe

4.8 from 83 reviews

This vibrant Green Beans with a Mountain of Panko recipe combines crisp-tender blanched green beans with a creamy, zesty tahini yogurt sauce and a generous topping of golden toasted panko breadcrumbs. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors perfect as a side or light meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Green Beans

  • 700 g/1.4 lb green beans, ends trimmed
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Tahini Yogurt Sauce

  • 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 kosher salt

Panko Topping

  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/8 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup parmesan, finely grated (tightly packed)

Instructions

  1. Cook Beans: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and return to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain the beans in a colander and rinse under cold running water for 10 seconds to stop cooking. No ice bath is necessary.
  2. Season Beans: Spread the drained beans onto a clean tea towel and dry with a second tea towel. Transfer the dry beans to a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Prepare Panko Topping: In a bowl, combine 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan. Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the panko mixture and stir continuously for 4 to 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and toasted. Remove from heat and transfer back to the bowl to cool.
  4. Make Tahini Yogurt Sauce: In a heat-proof bowl, whisk together 1 cup plain yogurt, 2 1/2 tablespoons tahini, 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice (or clear vinegar), 1 finely grated garlic clove, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt until just combined. Microwave the mixture on high for 20 seconds, then whisk vigorously for 10 seconds until the sauce resembles softly whipped cream. Use immediately or at room temperature.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Spread the seasoned green beans on a serving plate. Pour the whipped tahini yogurt sauce evenly over the beans, then generously pile the toasted panko topping on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Note 1: Trim the green bean ends for even cooking and better presentation.
  • Note 2: Tahini adds a nutty richness; substitute with extra yogurt for a milder flavor if preferred.
  • Note 3: Panko breadcrumbs provide a light, crunchy topping; regular breadcrumbs can be used but texture will vary.
  • Note 4: Microwaving the sauce briefly helps develop a creamy, whipped texture without cooking the garlic harshly.

Keywords: green beans, panko, tahini, yogurt sauce, toasted breadcrumbs, easy side dish, Mediterranean recipe, quick vegetables