There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the aroma of browned butter starts to waft through the air—it’s almost like a cozy hug for the senses. I recently decided to elevate one of my favorite side dishes: green beans. With just five simple ingredients and a sprinkle of creativity, I’ve transformed them into something truly extraordinary. Enter the Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah—a dish that not only celebrates the beauty of simplicity but also brings a delightful crunch and warm, aromatic flavors to the table.
This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or effortlessly impressing guests at your next gathering. The nutty richness of the brown butter complements the crisp-tender green beans beautifully, while the Hazelnut Dukkah adds an irresistible Middle Eastern flair that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So let’s dive in and bring a fresh twist to your dinner routine with this delicious, vegetarian-friendly side dish!
Why Love Browned Butter Green Beans?
Simplicity at its finest: With just five ingredients, you can whip up an impressive side dish without fuss.
Rich Flavor boost: Browned butter infuses a nutty richness, elevating ordinary green beans into a gourmet delight.
Crunchy Texture: The Hazelnut Dukkah adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite an exciting contrast.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or sudden guests.
Versatile Pairing: This dish complements everything from roasted meats to hearty vegetarian mains, making it a meal-time chameleon.
Elevate your meal with these incredible Browned Butter Green Beans—a remarkable way to bring vibrant flavor to your table!
Browned Butter Green Beans Ingredients
• Note: Discover how easy it is to make these delicious Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah using just five simple ingredients.
For the Dukkah
• Hazelnuts – Adds a rich, nutty crunch; use almonds as a substitute if needed.
• Everything Bagel Spice – Provides a blend of sesame seeds and garlic for flavor; homemade versions can replace store-bought.
• Garam Masala – Introduces warm spice notes; swap with curry powder or another spice blend if unavailable.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; use sea salt as a substitute if desired.
For the Green Beans
• Fresh Green Beans – The main vegetable component that’s crisp-tender when properly cooked; can be substituted with haricots verts for a more refined texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and depth of flavor; use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Orange Zest – Fresh citrus flavor brightens the dish; lemon zest can be used as an alternative.
How to Make Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah
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Toast Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until fragrant and golden brown. Allow them to cool, then rub off the skins and chop finely.
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Prepare Dukkah: In a bowl, combine the chopped hazelnuts with Everything Bagel Spice, garam masala, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix well to create a flavorful spice blend.
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Blanch Green Beans: Trim the ends of the green beans and blanch them in boiling water for about 4 minutes. Transfer them to an ice bath immediately to halt the cooking process, then drain and pat dry.
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Brown Butter: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter until it reaches a dark amber color and releases a nutty aroma. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes, so be attentive!
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Sauté Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the browned butter and sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes until heated through, seasoning with the remaining salt.
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Serve: Transfer the sautéed green beans to a serving platter, sprinkle generously with the Hazelnut Dukkah and orange zest, and enjoy the delightful flavors together!
Optional: For an added pop of color and flavor, drizzle with a touch of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah?
Creating a memorable meal means pairing delightful flavors and textures that will impress everyone around the table.
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Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: This juicy chicken, marinated with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, enhances the nutty flavors of the green beans beautifully.
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Roasted Pork Tenderloin: The savory, caramelized edges of this pork dish provide a lovely contrast to the bright green beans, offering a satisfying balance on the plate.
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Savory Quinoa Salad: Packed with fresh veggies and earthy spices, this hearty salad adds fiber and makes a wonderful vegetarian complement to your green beans.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, mashed potatoes enveloping a hint of garlic will elevate the meal’s comfort factor while playing well with the hazelnut crunch.
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Citrus-Infused Rice: The subtle brightness from citrus zest in the rice complements the rich, nutty flavors of the brown butter, creating a harmonious dish.
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Crispy Baguette: Serve warm, crusty bread on the side to soak up every last drop of that gorgeous browned butter; a simple pairing that feels indulgent.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the dish, making every bite more delightful.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the meal with a silky chocolate mousse for dessert; its richness contrasts brilliantly with the lightness of the green beans, adding to the overall dining experience.
Each of these pairings will not only elevate your Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah but will also guarantee smiles around the table.
Make Ahead Options
These Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah are perfect for meal prep! You can blanch the green beans and prepare the Dukkah spice mix up to 3 days in advance. Blanch the green beans, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge to retain their vibrant color and crunch. For the Dukkah, mix the hazelnuts with the spices and keep it in a sealed jar to maintain flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply brown the butter in a skillet, sauté the prepped green beans for about 4-5 minutes until heated through, and finish with the Hazelnut Dukkah and orange zest. This way, you’ll enjoy a gourmet side dish with minimal effort and just as delicious results!
Expert Tips for Browned Butter Green Beans
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Watch the Butter: Be vigilant while browning butter; it can turn from perfect to burnt in moments. Look for a deep amber color and a nutty aroma.
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Perfectly Crisp: Avoid overcooking the green beans. They should be vibrant and crisp-tender, preserving their bright color and snappy texture.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the Hazelnut Dukkah by tweaking the spice levels according to your heat preference; a little goes a long way!
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Storage Reminder: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently in a skillet to keep that delicious texture.
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Nut Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different nuts! Almonds or pecans can bring new dimensions to the Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah.
Browned Butter Green Beans Variations
Customize your experience with these delightful twists that will take your Browned Butter Green Beans to new heights of flavor and texture.
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Nut Alternatives: Try using almonds or pecans for different nutty profiles. Each nut brings its own unique flavor to the Dukkah mix, making it a fun exploration of taste.
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Aromatic Boost: Add sautéed garlic or shallots to the brown butter for an aromatic layer that will make your dish even more enticing. The savory scent will fill your kitchen with warmth.
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Spicy Kick: For an extra kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the brown butter. This adds a delightful warmth that complements the nuttiness beautifully.
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Cheesy Indulgence: Sprinkle in some grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese before serving for a creamy, savory punch. The melted cheese blends perfectly with the nutty flavors, adding richness.
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Citrusy Twist: Swap out the orange zest for lemon or lime zest to introduce a bright, tangy flavor. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the brown butter.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley right at the end of cooking to add a vibrant green pop and fragrant notes. Fresh herbs elevate the dish to another level.
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Vegan Version: Substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil to create a delightful dairy-free counterpart. You won’t sacrifice flavor while catering to dietary preferences.
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Creative Greens: Replace green beans with broccolini or asparagus for a twist on textures and flavors. Both options provide a unique spin while maintaining the dish’s crisp-tender charm.
Storage Tips for Browned Butter Green Beans
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah fresh and flavorful.
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Freezer: For longer storage, the green beans can be frozen. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. Make sure to properly cool them before freezing.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm the green beans gently in a skillet over medium heat. This helps retain their original texture and nutty flavor from the brown butter.
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Airtight Check: Always ensure the container is sealed tightly when storing in the fridge or freezer to prevent moisture and maintain quality.
Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah Recipe FAQs
What type of hazelnuts should I use for the recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting hazelnuts, look for those that are whole, unsalted, and raw. Toasting them enhances their flavor and crunch. If hazelnuts are unavailable, feel free to substitute them with almonds for a similar nutty profile.
How should I store any leftovers?
Great question! Store your leftover Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will maintain their flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, heat them gently in a skillet over medium heat to revive that cherished crunch.
Can I freeze the green beans?
Yes, indeed! To freeze the green beans, first allow them to cool completely after cooking. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring all air is removed, and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat gently in a skillet.
What if I burn the butter while browning it?
Oh no! If your butter turns burnt, don’t despair. The key is to watch it carefully as it melts. Once it starts foaming, keep a close eye, stirring continuously until it reaches that perfect deep amber color and nutty aroma (around 4-5 minutes). If it’s burnt, it’s best to start over—your dish will truly shine when the butter is perfect!
Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Very! While the original recipe includes hazelnuts, you can easily make it nut-free if needed. Simply replace the hazelnuts with a mixture of toasted seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for a similar crunch without triggering any nut allergies.
Can I modify the dukkah spices for different flavors?
Of course! The beauty of this Hazelnut Dukkah lies in its versatility. If you want to customize the spice levels, consider adding a dash of paprika for smokiness or more garlic powder for an extra zing. Experiment and adjust according to your personal taste—it’s all about what makes your palate happy!
Irresistible Browned Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until fragrant and golden brown. Allow them to cool, then rub off the skins and chop finely.
- In a bowl, combine the chopped hazelnuts with Everything Bagel Spice, garam masala, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix well to create a flavorful spice blend.
- Trim the ends of the green beans and blanch them in boiling water for about 4 minutes. Transfer them to an ice bath immediately to halt the cooking process, then drain and pat dry.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter until it reaches a dark amber color and releases a nutty aroma. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the browned butter and sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes until heated through, seasoning with the remaining salt.
- Transfer the sautéed green beans to a serving platter, sprinkle generously with the Hazelnut Dukkah and orange zest, and enjoy.