Are you looking for a deliciously simple way to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the humble wax bean! These sweet and tender legumes are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and can be prepared in a multitude of ways. From savory sautés to tangy salads, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 flavorful wax bean recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different ways to prepare wax beans in everything from stir-fries and stews to casseroles and salads. With ingredients like garlic, lemon, and bacon adding depth and complexity to each dish, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
So what are you waiting for? Dive in and discover the delicious world of wax bean recipes!
Garlic Butter Sautéed Wax Beans
Wax beans are a delicious and underrated vegetable that can be elevated with the simplicity of garlic butter. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the wax beans for 5 minutes, then immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop cooking.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Remove the wax beans from the ice bath and add them to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Wax Beans
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional roasted beans, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of wax beans with a hint of lemon and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss wax beans with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and rosemary until beans are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the bean mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until beans are tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sesame Wax Bean Stir-Fry
This spicy stir-fry combines the natural sweetness of wax beans with the savory flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wax beans (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the wax beans; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sriracha sauce.
5. Pour the sauce over the wax beans and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Wax Bean Fries
Transform humble wax beans into a crispy, cheesy snack with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wax beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each wax bean into the beaten egg, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated wax beans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Wax Bean Bundles
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these crispy, flavorful bundles of wax beans wrapped in smoky bacon. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or family dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans (or green beans), trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the wax beans into 3-inch pieces.
3. Wrap each bean piece with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Wax Beans with Almonds
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the natural sweetness of wax beans with the crunch of almonds, all tied together with a drizzle of honey. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads for a burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and salt.
3. Add the wax beans and toss to coat.
4. Spread the beans in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. While the beans are roasting, mix honey and almonds in a small bowl.
7. After the beans have roasted for 15 minutes, drizzle with the honey-almond mixture and continue to roast for an additional 5-10 minutes.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wax Bean and Tomato Summer Salad
Summer’s sweetness shines in this refreshing salad, featuring tender wax beans, juicy tomatoes, and a hint of tanginess.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the wax beans for 5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wax beans, diced tomatoes, olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Creamy Dill Wax Bean Potato Salad
This refreshing potato salad gets a boost of flavor from the addition of creamy wax beans and fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup wax beans, drained and sliced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the sliced wax beans, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Once the potatoes have cooled, add them to the wax bean mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
6. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Wax Bean and Mushroom Medley
This simple yet flavorful medley is a great way to enjoy the sweet flavors of wax beans and earthy mushrooms. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss wax beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread wax beans on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (about 10 minutes).
7. Combine roasted wax beans and sautéed mushroom mixture. Garnish with parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tangy Pickled Wax Beans
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these tangy pickled wax beans! This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, making it perfect for busy days or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans (fresh or frozen), trimmed
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup salt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine wax beans, vinegar, water, sugar, salt, garlic, and mustard seeds.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain beans and reserve liquid. Store in an airtight container with reserved liquid.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Wax Bean and Corn Succotash
This succulent side dish combines the sweetness of corn with the tender crunch of wax beans, all wrapped up in a flavorful medley. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main course!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wax beans, sliced
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced wax beans, corn kernels, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlicky Wax Bean and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors, with the sweetness of wax beans balanced by the savory richness of chickpeas and garlic. Serve over crusty bread or with a side of rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried wax beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked wax beans, water, chickpeas, garlic, onion, and cumin.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wax Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Wax Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions: A classic comfort food dish that combines tender green beans with a crispy onion topping, perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté wax beans and butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a separate pan, cook onion slices in butter until crispy and golden brown.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked wax beans, cheese, and milk. Top with crispy onions.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wax Bean and Carrot Ginger Stir-Fry
Wax Bean and Carrot Ginger Stir-Fry Recipe
This vibrant stir-fry combines the natural sweetness of wax beans and carrots with the spicy warmth of ginger, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wax beans, sliced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
- 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- Add the ginger and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the carrots and wax beans. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Smoky Paprika Roasted Wax Beans
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of wax beans with a smoky paprika flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the wax beans with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the bean mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender and lightly caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wax Bean and Quinoa Power Bowl
This nutritious bowl combines the creamy texture of wax beans with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all wrapped up in a flavorful and healthy package. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 can wax beans (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add wax beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked quinoa, wax bean mixture, and chopped cilantro.
5. Top with feta cheese and almonds (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wax Bean and Feta Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of wax beans with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a vibrant bell pepper. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup wax beans, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sliced wax beans to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in crumbled feta cheese until combined with the wax beans.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the wax bean and feta mixture, topping with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wax Bean and Sausage Skillet Dinner
This hearty skillet dinner combines the tender sweetness of wax beans with the savory flavor of sausage, all cooked to perfection in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 cups wax beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the wax beans, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to coat with the bean mixture.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until the beans are tender and the sausage is cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of wax beans with these 18 deliciously simple recipes! From classic sautéed and roasted dishes to creative stir-fries and salads, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy garlic butter-sauteed wax beans, lemon herb-roasted beans, spicy sesame-stir fried beans, crispy parmesan fries, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy. Get creative with bacon-wrapped bundles, honey glazed beans with almonds, and tangy pickled beans. Whatever your taste, there’s a wax bean recipe to match!
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