Introduction
Green beans are a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a delicious dish with a few simple components. This recipe combines the freshness of green beans with a creamy whipped tahini yogurt sauce and a crunchy parmesan panko topping, making it an elegant yet easy-to-prepare side or appetizer.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Beans:
– 700 g/1.4lb green beans, ends trimmed
– 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Whipped Tahini Yogurt:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 1/2 tbsp tahini
– 1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (sub 1 tbsp clear vinegar)
– 1 garlic clove, finely grated
– 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt
Parmesan 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)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 5 servings
To prepare the dish, start by blanching the green beans in boiling water for just two minutes, then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. After drying, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Next, create the whipped tahini yogurt by mixing the ingredients and lightly microwaving them for a creamy texture. For the parmesan panko topping, toast the mixture in a pan until golden brown. When ready to serve, assemble the green beans, drizzle with the tahini yogurt, and top with the crunchy panko. Enjoy this delightful dish that balances creaminess and crispiness in every bite.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook Beans
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the trimmed green beans and allow the water to return to boiling. Cook the beans for 2 minutes, then drain them in a colander. Rinse the beans under cold running water for 10 seconds to stop the cooking process.
Season
Spread the beans out on a clean tea towel and gently pat them dry with a second tea towel. Transfer the dried beans into a bowl, and toss them with extra virgin olive oil, cooking salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated.
Panko Mountain
In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, extra virgin olive oil, and cooking salt. Preheat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the panko mixture to the pan and stir for 4 to 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Transfer the toasted panko back to the bowl and allow it to cool.
Whipped Tahini Yogurt
In a heat-proof bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, finely grated garlic, and cooking salt until well combined. Microwave the mixture on high for 20 seconds, then whisk again for 10 seconds. The consistency should resemble softly whipped cream. Use immediately or allow it to reach room temperature.
Assemble
Spread the cooked green beans evenly on a serving plate. Pour the whipped tahini yogurt over the beans, then generously pile the toasted panko on top. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Bean Trimming
When trimming the beans, it is sufficient to remove just the stem end. The pointy end is optional and can be kept on for presentation. However, if you prefer to trim both ends, it is an easy task.
Tahini
Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds and is typically found in the health food aisle of grocery stores. Use hulled tahini for a milder flavor, as un-hulled tahini can be darker and more bitter. If you have leftover Chinese sesame paste, you can substitute it in this recipe.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs add a unique crispiness and are available in most major supermarkets, typically in the Asian foods section. If panko is unavailable, you may use regular breadcrumbs as an alternative.
Microwave Alternative
If you do not have a microwave, create a bain-marie setup by placing the heat-proof bowl over a saucepan filled with 1 inch (2.5 cm) of simmering water. Whisk continuously as the mixture warms to achieve the desired whipped texture.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can cook the beans and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. The tahini sauce can be prepared a day in advance, and the toasted panko can be made up to 2 days ahead. When ready to serve, bring all components to room temperature, toss the beans with oil, salt, and pepper, re-whisk the tahini mixture for 20 seconds in the microwave, and then assemble.
Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days, but note that the panko will lose its crunch when in contact with the yogurt. To maintain freshness, consider reserving some components separately to assemble later.
Cook techniques
Blanching Beans
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add trimmed green beans, and cook for 2 minutes. Drain in a colander and rinse under cold running water for 10 seconds to stop the cooking process.
Drying Beans
After blanching, spread beans on a tea towel and use a second towel to dry them before seasoning.
Seasoning Beans
In a bowl, toss the blanched beans with extra virgin olive oil, cooking salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Toasting Panko Breadcrumbs
Mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and salt, then toast in a preheated non-stick pan over medium-high heat, stirring for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown.
Whipping Tahini Yogurt
Combine plain yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, grated garlic, and kosher salt in a heat-proof bowl. Microwave for 20 seconds, then whisk again until it resembles softly whipped cream.
Assembling the Dish
Spread the seasoned green beans on a plate, pour the whipped tahini yogurt over them, and top with the toasted panko mixture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh green beans will provide a better texture. If using frozen, reduce blanching time accordingly.
What can I substitute for tahini?
You can use Chinese sesame paste or sunbutter as a substitute if you don’t have tahini.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the beans and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The tahini sauce can be made a day before, and the panko breadcrumbs can be toasted up to 2 days in advance.
How do I keep the panko crispy?
To maintain the crunchiness, serve the panko separately and add it just before eating.
What should I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be kept for 2 days, but be aware that the panko will lose its crunch when in contact with the yogurt.
Conclusion
This dish is a delightful combination of vibrant green beans, creamy whipped tahini yogurt, and a crunchy parmesan panko topping. It’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and texture, making it a fantastic side dish or a light meal option. The preparation is simple, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet experience in the comfort of your home.
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