Name: Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs green beans (washed and prepped); 4 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup pine nuts (sliced or slivered almonds or coarsely chopped walnuts can be substituted); 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp salt

Introduction to Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

A fresh twist on a classic side dish

Looking for a way to elevate your holiday table this season? Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce might just be the answer. This dish brings a fresh, gourmet touch to a traditional side, and it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. The creamy Dijon sauce adds both richness and a zingy flavor that perfectly complements the natural crispness of the green beans.

Green beans are not only colorful and appealing but also packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K. According to the USDA, just one cup of green beans provides about 10% of your daily fiber needs, making them a wholesome addition to any meal. Pair that with a luscious cream sauce, and you’ve got a side dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious.

This recipe is perfect for gatherings, offering a delightful alternative to classic favorites like Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham. Plus, with a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of only 13 minutes, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

So, let’s dive into the recipe and bring some excitement to your Thanksgiving feast!

Ingredients for Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

If you're looking to elevate your holiday dinner or simply want a fresh side for a weeknight meal, Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce will fit the bill perfectly! Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious dish:

Fresh and Flavorful Green Beans

2 lbs (almost 1 kg) green beans, washed and prepped
These vibrant green beans are the star of the show, offering both flavor and essential nutrients. For a perfect crunch, use fresh ones when possible.

Rich and Creamy Sauce Components

4 tablespoon (57 g) butter
¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
These ingredients add richness and texture to the dish. Heavy cream provides a luscious base, while butter enhances the overall flavor.

Must-Have Flavor Enhancers

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
These tangy elements balance the creaminess beautifully and contribute to the distinctive taste of the Dijon sauce.

Nutty Goodness

¼ cup (35 g) pine nuts (or sliced almonds/walnuts)
Toasted nuts add a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness, making the dish truly special!

Seasoning Stars

½ teaspoon salt
Just the right amount of salt is all you need to tie the flavors together.

By gathering these ingredients, you’re on your way to serving a side that will impress both family and friends. If you're curious about storage tips or variations, check out this green bean storage guide for more information.

Step-by-step Preparation of Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

Preparing a delightful dish like Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce can elevate any meal, whether it's a holiday gathering or a casual dinner at home. Let’s walk through the steps to make this creamy, tangy side dish that will impress your guests and family alike!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to have everything at hand. You’ll need:

2 lbs (almost 1 kg) of green beans, washed and prepped
4 tablespoon (57 g) of butter
¼ cup (35 g) of pine nuts (you can also use sliced or slivered almonds or coarsely chopped walnuts)
¼ cup (60 ml) of heavy cream
2 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
½ teaspoon of salt

Make sure your green beans are fresh—look for vibrant color and firmness! You can read about the health benefits of green beans from sources like Healthline.

Prepare the Green Beans

Once you have your ingredients, it’s time to prep the green beans. Trim the ends of the beans to ensure they’re ready for cooking. This simple step enhances the overall presentation of your dish while making them easier to enjoy. Do you remember the last time you enjoyed perfectly cooked green beans? It’s all about the details!

Boil and Ice the Green Beans

Fill a large pot with water and set it over high heat until it reaches a rapid boil. Add a generous pinch of salt for flavor. Then carefully drop in your green beans. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, depending on how crisp you like them.

While the beans are bubbling away, prepare a large bowl filled with ice water. This technique, known as blanching, will stop the cooking process and lock in that vibrant green color. Once the green beans are done, immediately plunge them into the ice water for a minute or two before draining them on paper towels.

Toast the Nuts in Butter

Now, let’s add some richness to our dish! In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, toss in your pine nuts (or your nut of choice) and gently stir for about 5 minutes or until they’re lightly toasted and fragrant. The aroma of toasting nuts in butter is simply irresistible, isn’t it?

Combine Ingredients and Sauté

With your green beans cradled in a bowl nearby and your toasted nuts ready, it’s time to bring everything together. In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and salt. Stir until well combined and simmer for a minute. Toss in your cooked green beans and carefully sauté everything together for about 5 minutes, ensuring the beans are evenly coated with the sauce.

Remember, you want everything heated through without overcooking the beans! Serve this Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce fresh and warm, and watch as your loved ones savor each bite.

Enjoy creating this delightful side dish that’s perfect for any gathering! For a burst of flavor, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or even a lean cut of beef. Happy cooking!

Variations on Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

Adding Different Nuts for Texture

Elevate your Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce by experimenting with various nuts. Pine nuts lend a delicate flavor, but don't hesitate to try sliced or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch. Coarsely chopped walnuts add an earthy richness that beautifully contrasts the creamy sauce. Each nut variety not only enhances texture but also introduces different taste notes, making this side dish uniquely yours.

Incorporating Other Vegetables

For an added nutritional boost and visual appeal, consider incorporating other vegetables into your Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce. Sautéed mushrooms bring an umami depth, while thinly sliced bell peppers add sweetness and a pop of color. You can even toss in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness. The key is to keep the flavors harmonious, so choose vegetables that complement the creamy Dijon without overpowering it. Get creative and make this dish your own!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

When preparing your Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce, there are some simple tips to ensure delicious results:

Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh green beans offer better texture and flavor, but frozen can be a quick alternative. If using frozen, follow package instructions for the best cooking times.
Toast Your Nuts: Toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor dramatically. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can blanch the green beans a day in advance. This not only saves time but also keeps them crisp. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge!
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs, like thyme or dill, for an extra punch. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also enhance the sauce.

For more insights on preparing green vegetables, consider checking out Cooking Light. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

When you dish up your Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce, consider pairing it with a variety of flavors to elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Roasted Proteins: Serve alongside herb-roasted chicken, turkey bacon, or beef for a protein-packed meal.
Grains: Place the green beans on a bed of quinoa or wild rice to add a nutty texture that complements the creamy sauce.
Bread: A crusty baguette or garlic bread can soak up any sauce left on the plate, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
Salad: Balance the richness with a refreshing side salad featuring arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette.

Explore more ideas and inspiration on Taste of Home or Serious Eats!

Time Breakdown for Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

Preparation Time

Getting ready to make your Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce is a breeze! You'll only need about 5 minutes to wash and prep your fresh green beans and gather your ingredients.

Cooking Time

The cooking part is swift as well. You'll spend about 13 minutes sautéing those beautiful beans to perfection, ensuring they’re tender but still crisp.

Total Time

In total, you'll have your delicious side dish ready in just 18 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights or festive gatherings. For more quick recipes, check out guides on easy side dishes that can complement any main course.

Nutritional Facts for Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

Calories

With just about 120 calories per serving, green beans with Dijon cream sauce make for a wholesome addition to any meal without adding too much to your overall daily caloric intake. They’re an excellent choice for a hearty yet light side dish.

Protein

This delightful dish offers around 3 grams of protein per serving, thanks in part to the nuts incorporated in the sauce. While it’s not a protein powerhouse, every little bit helps contribute to your daily needs, especially when paired with a protein-rich main course.

Sodium

Sodium content in this recipe is relatively low, approximately 250 milligrams per serving. This can be adjusted by using unsalted butter and choosing low-sodium Dijon mustard. Keeping an eye on sodium intake is crucial for maintaining heart health, so feel free to tweak the ingredients to fit your dietary requirements!

Incorporating green beans with Dijon cream sauce into your Thanksgiving feast not only excites the palate but also adds nutritional value to your meal. For more detailed nutrition insights, you can explore resources on nutritiondata.self.com or consult the USDA's food composition database at fdc.nal.usda.gov.

FAQs about Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the green beans up to two days ahead. Just blanch them as directed in the recipe, then store them in the fridge wrapped in paper towels. When you're ready to serve, simply toss them into the skillet with the sauce and finish cooking — it's that easy!

What are some good substitutes for Dijon mustard?
If you're not a fan of Dijon, there are excellent alternatives. Try using whole grain mustard for a textural change, or mix a little yellow mustard with some honey for sweetness. You can even use Horseradish for a spicy twist. Check out this guide on mustards for more options!

How do I make the sauce lighter?
To lighten up the Dijon cream sauce, consider swapping heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut cream. These alternatives reduce fat while still adding a creamy texture. You can also use vegetable broth instead of butter for sautéing, which will maintain flavor without the extra calories.

Conclusion on Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce

Embracing Green Beans with Dijon Cream Sauce is a delightful way to elevate your Thanksgiving table. This vibrant dish is quick to prepare, bringing a satisfying crunch alongside its creamy, tangy sauce. Your guests will appreciate the fresh flavors, making it a memorable side that pairs beautifully with any main course. As you experiment with variations, don’t hesitate to share your experiences. Happy cooking!