Asian Sauteed Green Beans Recipe Vegan and Flavorful

Updated On: October 4, 2025

Asian sautéed green beans are a vibrant, flavorful, and delightfully simple dish that brings a burst of freshness to your dinner table. Perfectly crisp-tender green beans tossed in a savory, garlicky soy-based sauce make this recipe a standout vegan side or light main.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based meals, this dish promises a satisfying balance of textures and umami-rich flavors that everyone will enjoy. The best part?

It comes together in under 20 minutes, making it an ideal quick weeknight recipe.

This recipe uses just a handful of wholesome ingredients like fresh green beans, garlic, ginger, and gluten-free tamari or soy sauce to create a dish that’s both nutritious and deeply satisfying. If you love recipes that pack a punch without complicated steps, this one’s for you!

Don’t forget to check out our Half Runner Beans Recipe for another fantastic bean dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Asian sautéed green beans are not only quick and easy to make, but they are also incredibly versatile. The bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce perfectly complement the natural sweetness and crunch of green beans.

This recipe is:

  • Vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
  • Low calorie and nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins A, C, and fiber.
  • Perfectly customizable – add chili flakes for heat or toasted sesame seeds for extra texture.
  • Great for meal prep as it reheats well and retains its crispness.

If you enjoy Asian-inspired dishes, you might also love our Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe to amp up your stir-fries with authentic flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as canola or avocado oil)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mixing bowl (optional, for sauce)
  • Tongs or spatula

Instructions

  1. Prepare the green beans: Rinse the green beans under cold water and trim the ends. Pat dry with a clean towel.
  2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.
  3. Heat the skillet: Place your skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
  4. Add green beans: Toss in the green beans and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
  5. Add sauce and seasoning: Pour the prepared sauce over the green beans. Add red pepper flakes if using. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the beans are well coated and the sauce is slightly reduced.
  6. Final touches: Taste and season with salt and black pepper if needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for garnish.
  7. Serve immediately: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm.

Tips & Variations

“For extra crunch, blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes then transfer to ice water before sautéing.”

  • Try adding chopped scallions or fresh cilantro for a fresh herbal note.
  • For a smoky flavor, add a splash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
  • Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Incorporate a tablespoon of peanut butter or tahini into the sauce for a creamy twist.
  • Add chopped cashews or peanuts for added texture and protein.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount Per Serving
Calories 120 kcal
Carbohydrates 12 g
Protein 3 g
Fat 7 g
Fiber 4 g
Sodium 600 mg
Vitamin A 15% DV
Vitamin C 25% DV

Serving Suggestions

This Asian sautéed green beans recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or your favorite grain bowl for a wholesome vegan meal.

It also complements Asian-inspired dishes like tofu stir-fries or crispy vegetable spring rolls.

For a heartier meal, plate these green beans with your favorite vegan protein such as tempeh or seitan. Don’t miss out on checking our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a sweet and healthy treat after dinner!

Conclusion

Asian sautéed green beans are a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, nutritious, and flavorful vegan side dish. The combination of fresh green beans with aromatic garlic and ginger, balanced by the savory-sweet sauce, makes this recipe an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish brings a satisfying crunch and vibrant taste to the table.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a healthy dish that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. Plus, it’s highly adaptable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Don’t forget to explore our other delicious recipes like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe for cozy dessert inspiration or the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for an indulgent treat.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Asian Sautéed Green Beans (Vegan)

Description: A quick and flavorful vegan dish featuring crisp green beans sautéed with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Perfect as a side or light main course.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp maple syrup or agave
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add green beans and cook, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
  4. Stir in soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes; cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions.
  6. Serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 110 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Carbs: 9g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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