Embark on a culinary journey to revitalize a traditional holiday favorite with this Healthy Green Bean Casserole recipe. By incorporating fresh ingredients and making mindful substitutions, this rendition transforms the classic dish into a lighter, nourishing option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re seeking a healthier alternative for a holiday gathering or simply want to enjoy a beloved comfort food without the guilt, this recipe promises to deliver both satisfaction and wellness.
Ingredients:
- For the Casserole:
- 1.5 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or white button)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons almond flour (or whole wheat flour for a non-gluten-free option)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup almond slices
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor, optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Blanch the Green Beans:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and mushrooms, and cook until the mushrooms are soft and their moisture has evaporated, about 8 minutes. Stir in the thyme, almond flour, and gradually whisk in the almond milk. Simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine:
Add the blanched green beans to the mushroom mixture, tossing gently to coat. Transfer the green bean mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the almond slices, nutritional yeast (if using), 1 tablespoon olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the green bean mixture.
6. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Serve:
Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This brief rest time lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
This Healthy Green Bean Casserole retains the essence of the classic dish while introducing a fresh, wholesome perspective. The combination of crisp green beans, savory mushrooms, and a crunchy almond topping makes for a delightful side dish that’s sure to be a hit at any meal, especially during the holiday season. Enjoy this guilt-free version of a timeless classic that everyone can appreciate.
