Lemon Butter Green Beans with Cranberries, Walnuts, and Feta Recipe
Introduction
This Lemon Butter Green Beans dish is a vibrant side that combines tender green beans with the rich flavors of butter, tangy lemon, and the crunch of walnuts. Dried cranberries and creamy feta add a delightful sweet and salty contrast, making it perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb green beans, ends trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 Tbsp butter, diced into 1 Tbsp pieces
- 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta
- 2 tsp lemon zest
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and boil for 3 to 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Drain the beans, then immediately rinse under cold water. Drain well.
- Step 2: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add the drained green beans to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute or until heated through.
- Step 4: Toss in the toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and lemon juice. Season with salt to taste and stir to combine.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the crumbled feta and lemon zest over the green beans. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, lightly toast the walnuts just before adding them to the dish.
- If you prefer a dairy-free option, omit the feta or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic for a subtle spicy kick.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the texture of the green beans and nuts. Avoid microwaving directly as it can make the green beans soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used. Thaw and drain them well before sautéing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the green beans and walnuts ahead, but add the feta and lemon zest just before serving to keep the flavors fresh and the feta from melting.
PrintLemon Butter Green Beans with Cranberries, Walnuts, and Feta Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful side dish featuring tender green beans sautéed in buttery garlic, combined with the sweetness of cranberries, crunch of toasted walnuts, and tangy feta cheese, all brightened with fresh lemon juice and zest. Perfect for adding a fresh, colorful touch to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Green Beans
- 1 lb green beans, ends trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
Butter and Seasonings
- 3 Tbsp butter, diced into 1 Tbsp pieces
- 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tsp lemon zest
Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Blanch Green Beans: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and boil for 3 to 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Drain the beans and immediately rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
- Sauté Garlic and Green Beans: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the drained green beans and sauté for an additional 1 minute or until they are heated through.
- Add Walnuts, Cranberries, and Lemon Juice: Toss in the toasted walnuts and dried cranberries. Pour in the lemon juice and season with salt to taste, mixing everything gently to combine flavors.
- Finish with Feta and Lemon Zest: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and lemon zest over the green bean mixture. Serve the dish warm for the best flavor.
- Recipe Source: Cooking Classy
Notes
- To toast walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- If fresh lemon juice is unavailable, bottled lemon juice can be used but fresh is recommended for brightness.
- For a nut-free version, omit walnuts and consider substituting with toasted pumpkin seeds or omit completely.
- This dish is best served fresh and warm but can be served at room temperature.
- Adjust salt according to the saltiness of the feta cheese used.
Keywords: green beans, lemon butter green beans, cranberry walnut salad, feta cheese side dish, healthy vegetable side, holiday side dish
