GREEN BEANS AU GRATIN BY NONNA

Green beans au gratin are a very simple and quick side dish to prepare.

They are suitable to accompany both meat and fish dishes.

They are also a rather light dish: in fact, little oil is used and they are only gratinated with a little grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs so that a crispy crust forms.

Therefore, no béchamel sauce is used.

However, they remain very tasty and will appeal to everyone: adults and children.

Let’s see together how they are prepared.

Why Nonna Suggests This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with minimal preparation.
2. Classic Italian Flavors: Parmesan, basil, and garlic elevate this humble vegetable to a delicious dish.
3. Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to pasta.
4. Crispy and Cheesy: The breadcrumb and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese topping adds a satisfying crunch and flavor.
5. Leftover Magic: Leftovers can be transformed into a savory pie or frittata.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 9 minutes (Microwave Crisp Mode) or 15 minutes (Conventional Oven)
• Total Time: 14–20 minutes
• Servings: 3

Ingredients

• 10.5 oz green beans, boiled and drained (300 g)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
• 3 tbsp breadcrumbs
• Extra virgin olive oil, as needed
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh basil, to taste
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Green Beans:

1. Place the boiled green beans in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the minced garlic, fresh basil, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss well to coat evenly.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish:

1. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs evenly over the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking and add a base layer of crunch.

3. Assemble the Dish:

1. Spread the seasoned green beans in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly distributed and not overlapping too much.
2. Sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

4. Bake:

• Microwave Crisp Mode: Place the dish in the microwave on crisp mode and cook for 9 minutes.
• Conventional Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden and crispy on top.

5. Serve:

1. Remove the green beans from the oven or microwave and let them cool slightly.
2. Serve warm as a side dish or as part of a larger meal.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reuse Tip: Leftovers can be used as a filling for a savory puff pastry pie or mixed into a frittata with mozzarella and eggs.

Tips by Nonna

1. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, crisp green beans for the best texture and flavor.
2. Breadcrumbs: Lightly toast the breadcrumbs before sprinkling for an extra layer of crunch.
3. Add Mozzarella: For a more indulgent dish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top before baking.
4. Pairings: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or pasta for a complete meal.
5. Customizable Toppings: Add chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor.

Green Beans au Gratin

Green Beans Au Gratin is a simple, flavorful side dish that combines tender green beans with a crispy, cheesy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side for a festive meal, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with Italian-inspired flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 9 minutes mins

Total Time 14 minutes mins

Course Salad

Cuisine Italian

Servings 3

Notes

Ingredients

• 300 g green beans, boiled and drained
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tbsp breadcrumbs
• Extra virgin olive oil, as needed
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh basil, to taste
• 1 clove garlic, minced

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Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Green Beans:

1. Place the boiled green beans in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the minced garlic, fresh basil, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss well to coat evenly.

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2. Prepare the Baking Dish:

1. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs evenly over the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking and add a base layer of crunch.

---

3. Assemble the Dish:

1. Spread the seasoned green beans in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly distributed and not overlapping too much.
2. Sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

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4. Bake:

• Microwave Crisp Mode: Place the dish in the microwave on crisp mode and cook for 9 minutes.
• Conventional Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden and crispy on top.

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5. Serve:

1. Remove the green beans from the oven or microwave and let them cool slightly.
2. Serve warm as a side dish or as part of a larger meal.

Keyword italian salad, green beans, green beans salad,

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