Green Beans with a Mountain of Panko Recipe
A vibrant and crunchy dish featuring blanched green beans topped with a creamy whipped tahini yogurt sauce and a golden mountain of toasted panko breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan, perfect as a flavorful side or a light vegetarian main.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Green Beans
- 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
Whipped Tahini Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 1/2 tbsp tahini
- 1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (substitute: 1 tbsp clear vinegar)
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
- 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt
Panko Mountain
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/8 tsp cooking/kosher salt
- 1/4 cup parmesan, finely grated (tightly packed cup)
Instructions
- Cook Beans: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and wait for the water to return to a boil, then cook the beans for 2 minutes. Drain immediately in a colander and rinse under cold running water for 10 seconds to stop the cooking process without the need for ice.
- Season: Spread the cooked beans on a tea towel and dry by covering with a second tea towel. Transfer the dried beans into a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to evenly coat.
- Prepare Panko Mountain: In a bowl, combine 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan. Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add the panko mixture. Toast, stirring continuously, for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture is golden brown. Remove from heat and transfer back into the bowl to cool.
- Make Whipped 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), finely grated garlic clove, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until just combined. Microwave on high for 20 seconds, then whisk vigorously for 10 seconds to create a softly whipped cream-like texture. Use immediately or keep at room temperature.
- Assemble: Arrange the green beans on a serving plate. Pour the whipped tahini yogurt sauce evenly over the beans. Top generously with the toasted panko and parmesan mixture. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Note 1: Trimming the ends of the green beans improves texture and presentation.
- Note 2: Tahini adds a nutty richness to the yogurt sauce; sub with clear vinegar if lemon juice is unavailable.
- Note 3: Panko breadcrumbs create a crispy, crunchy topping when toasted with olive oil and parmesan enhances flavor.
- Note 4: Microwaving the sauce briefly helps achieve a light, whipped texture that complements the beans perfectly.
Keywords: green beans, panko, tahini yogurt sauce, toasted breadcrumbs, parmesan, Mediterranean side dish, vegetarian
