Looking for a vibrant and flavorful side dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory? This Teriyaki Green Beans recipe is your new go-to!
Crisp-tender green beans tossed in a homemade teriyaki glaze create a deliciously addictive combination that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or prepping for a special occasion, this dish adds a burst of umami and freshness to your plate.
Unlike the usual steamed or sautéed green beans, this recipe infuses them with a rich, glossy teriyaki sauce made from scratch. It’s a simple yet impressive way to elevate your vegetable game.
Plus, it’s quick to make and uses wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand. Perfect for those who love Asian-inspired flavors but want a healthy, veggie-forward option.
Let’s dive into how to bring this tasty dish to life!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Teriyaki Green Beans are a delightful twist on an everyday vegetable side. Here’s why you’ll adore making and eating this dish:
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Fresh and crispy: The green beans retain their bright color and satisfying crunch.
- Flavor-packed: The homemade teriyaki sauce is perfectly balanced with soy sauce, sweetness, and a hint of ginger.
- Versatile: Serve it alongside grilled meats, tofu, or rice bowls for a well-rounded meal.
- Healthy: Low in calories and packed with nutrients, it’s a great way to add greens to your diet.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for a vegan option
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (canola or sunflower oil works well)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry (optional)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Instructions
- Prepare the green beans: Rinse and trim the ends off the green beans. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
- Blanch the beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and blanch for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender and bright green. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and preserve color. Drain and set aside.
- Make the teriyaki sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
- Cook the green beans: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the blanched green beans and stir-fry for 2 minutes until heated through.
- Add the sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the green beans and toss to coat evenly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the beans.
- Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
- Serve hot: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately as a side or part of a larger meal.
Tips & Variations
“For the best flavor, use fresh green beans that are bright green and snap easily. Avoid older beans that are limp or yellowing.”
- Make it vegan: Swap honey for pure maple syrup or agave nectar to keep this recipe plant-based.
- Add heat: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Boost texture: Add sliced almonds or chopped cashews for extra crunch.
- Use frozen green beans: They work fine but skip the blanching step and cook directly in the skillet until tender.
- Turn it into a main: Add cubed tofu or cooked chicken breast to the pan for a protein boost.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 90 |
Protein | 2 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Carbohydrates | 12 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sugar | 6 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This Teriyaki Green Beans recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try serving it alongside steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
It also complements grilled salmon or teriyaki chicken beautifully.
For a fully plant-based dinner, consider pairing it with our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or a bowl of comforting Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food. For a light and refreshing contrast, try a fresh green salad like our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Teriyaki Green Beans recipe is a fantastic way to add color, flavor, and nutrition to your dinner table. The balance of the sweet and savory teriyaki glaze with the crisp green beans makes it an irresistible side dish that everyone will love.
Best of all, it’s quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with the tips and variations to suit your taste. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to plain steamed green beans!
For more delicious and healthy recipes, explore our collection of vegan and vegetarian dishes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Teriyaki Green Beans
Description: A quick and flavorful side dish featuring crisp green beans tossed in a homemade teriyaki sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a tasty appetizer.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add green beans and sauté for 3 minutes.
- Pour teriyaki sauce over green beans and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 15 g
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