I Need a Recipe

Easy • Sides

Charred Green Beans with Lemon Breadcrumbs

Blistered skillet green beans tossed with crispy golden garlic breadcrumbs and fresh lemon zest.

Prep
10 min
Cook
10 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Charred Green Beans with Lemon Breadcrumbs

Elevate basic green beans into a showstopping side dish with a handful of toasted, garlicky panko breadcrumbs. The bright pop of lemon zest cuts through the rich crunch, making every bite completely addictive.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely grated
  • 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Melt butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Toast, stirring frequently, until breadcrumbs are golden-brown and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Transfer toasted breadcrumbs to a small bowl. Stir in lemon zest, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt; set aside.

  3. Step 3

    Wipe out the skillet and return to high heat with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add green beans in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for 3 minutes until blistered and lightly charred on the bottom.

  4. Step 4

    Toss and cook 2 to 3 minutes more until crisp-tender. Season with kosher salt and finish with fresh lemon juice.

  5. Step 5

    Transfer blistered beans to a serving platter and shower generously with the seasoned lemon breadcrumbs right before serving.

Tips

  • Keep the heat high when searing green beans so they char nicely on the exterior before becoming soggy.
  • Add the crunchy breadcrumb topping right before serving so they stay perfectly crisp.

More recipes you'll love