Welcome to a world of flavor with this Savory Green Bean & Mushroom Delight! This dish combines fresh green beans with earthy mushrooms and a creamy sauce, making it a standout side for any occasion. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a holiday feast.
Green beans are the star, providing a crisp and fresh base. Cremini mushrooms add depth and earthiness, while a medium onion and garlic lend aromatic undertones. Unsalted butter sets the stage for a rich sauce. Heavy cream and vegetable stock create a luxurious texture, enhanced by a splash of soy sauce for umami. Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty finish, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with sliced almonds provide a lovely crunch. Seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a hint of nutmeg ties it all together.
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey. It also shines alongside a hearty main like beef tenderloin. For a vegetarian feast, serve it with a side of fluffy quinoa or wild rice.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F. This gives you ample time to prep everything else while it heats up. Start by blanching the green beans in a pot of boiling water for about 5 minutes. This keeps them vibrant and crunchy. Once done, drain and set them aside.
Next, grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, letting them sauté until they're translucent and fragrant. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
Now, toss in the mushrooms. Keep stirring as they cook, releasing moisture and beginning to brown. This step is crucial for bringing out their natural flavors.
Once the mushrooms are nicely browned, stir in the heavy cream, vegetable stock, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Let this simmer until the sauce thickens. It should coat the back of a spoon when it's ready.
Transfer the blanched green beans into a baking dish, then pour the creamy mushroom sauce over them. Mix gently to ensure every bean is coated.
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, sliced almonds, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle.