Green beans are a versatile vegetable, perfect as a side or main dish. To complement their crisp, fresh taste, here are 15 side dishes that add variety and flavor to your meal.
From hearty meats to light vegetables, these sides will make your green beans shine in any meal setting.
Looking for a quick answer?
The best side dishes to serve with green beans are corn on the cob, chicken alfredo, Asian pork chops, onion rings, stuffed peppers, London broil, cheese dip, tzatziki sauce, shepherd's pie, shrimp skewers, peri peri chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, baked salmon, quinoa salad, and roasted sweet potatoes.
Now, let's get cooking!
Table of Contents
1. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a summer favorite that pairs wonderfully with green beans. Its sweet, juicy kernels provide a delightful contrast to the beans' crunchy texture. You can grill the corn for a smoky flavor or boil it for a classic taste. Add butter, salt, and a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra zing. This side dish brings a simple yet satisfying element to your green bean meal.
2. Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo, with its creamy sauce and tender chicken, is a rich and satisfying dish that complements the lightness of green beans. The pasta's smooth texture and the sauce's savory depth make it a comforting addition. Serve it alongside steamed or sautéed green beans for a balanced meal. This combination is perfect for those who love a creamy and hearty side with their veggies.
3. Asian Pork Chops
Asian pork chops, marinated in a blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, offer a savory and slightly sweet addition to green beans. The pork's robust flavors and tender texture pair beautifully with the crispness of the beans. Grill or pan-fry the chops for a caramelized exterior. This side dish introduces an exotic flair to your green bean dish, making it a memorable meal.
4. Onion Rings
Crispy onion rings are a crowd-pleaser and a fun side for green beans. Their crunchy exterior and sweet, soft interior offer a delightful contrast in textures. Dip them in a batter, fry until golden brown, and serve with a tangy dipping sauce. This side is perfect for adding a playful and indulgent element to your green bean meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers, filled with a mix of rice, meat, and spices, are a colorful and hearty choice. The peppers' tender flesh and the flavorful filling complement the green beans' freshness. You can use bell peppers of different colors for a vibrant presentation. This side dish adds a wholesome and nutritious element to your meal, making it more filling and diverse.
6. London Broil
London broil, a marinated and broiled beef dish, is a substantial and flavorful addition. Its meaty texture and rich taste pair well with the light and crisp green beans. Slice the beef thinly and serve it with a drizzle of the marinade as a sauce. This side dish brings a classic, rustic feel to your green bean meal, ideal for meat lovers.
7. Cheese Dip
A creamy cheese dip is a versatile and beloved side. Whether you choose a sharp cheddar or a smooth cream cheese base, the dip's rich flavor and creamy texture are delightful with green beans. Serve it warm for dipping, or drizzle over the beans for a cheesy twist. This side dish adds a comforting and indulgent touch, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of decadence with their veggies.
8. Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce, with its cool and creamy texture, is a refreshing complement to green beans. This Greek sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs adds a tangy and light touch. It's great as a dip or drizzled over the green beans. The contrast between the crisp beans and the creamy sauce creates a delightful balance, perfect for a light and healthy meal.
9. Shepherd's Pie
Shepherd's Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that pairs well with the simplicity of green beans. The pie, with its layers of savory meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, offers a variety of textures and flavors. This rich and filling side complements the crispness of the green beans, making for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
10. Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp skewers, marinated and grilled to perfection, are a fantastic seafood option to serve with green beans. The shrimp's delicate flavor and firm texture provide a nice contrast to the beans. You can season them with herbs, garlic, or a squeeze of lemon for extra zest. This side dish adds a light and elegant touch to your meal, ideal for a summery feast.
11. Peri Peri Chicken
Peri Peri Chicken, known for its spicy and tangy flavor, is an exciting addition to a green bean dish. The chicken's fiery taste and juicy texture complement the mild and crunchy green beans. Grill or bake the chicken to infuse the Peri Peri marinade deeply. This side dish brings a burst of bold flavors, making it a hit for those who love a bit of heat.
12. Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes offer a creamy and flavorful side that pairs excellently with green beans. The potatoes' smooth texture and the garlic's bold taste create a comforting and savory addition. Add a bit of cream or butter for extra richness. This side dish is a classic choice, perfect for those who appreciate a traditional, heartwarming meal.
13. Baked Salmon
Baked salmon, with its flaky texture and rich flavor, is a healthy and delicious option. Season it with herbs, lemon, and a touch of olive oil, then bake until tender. The salmon complements the lightness of green beans, adding a high-quality protein to your meal. This side dish is ideal for a nutritious and sophisticated dinner.
14. Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad, mixed with vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing, is a wholesome and vibrant choice. The quinoa's nutty flavor and the salad's fresh ingredients offer a refreshing side to green beans. You can add chopped nuts or feta cheese for extra flavor. This dish is perfect for a nutritious and filling addition to your green bean meal.
15. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes, with their natural sweetness and soft texture, are a delightful match for green beans. Roast them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or paprika for a warm, spicy note. This side dish adds a sweet and savory element, creating a harmonious balance with the green beans' freshness.
What To Serve With Green Beans
Ingredients
- 2 green beans
Instructions
- Make the best green beans using your favorite recipe.
- Make a side dish from the list above. You can eat green beans with corn on the cob, chicken alfredo, Asian pork chops, onion rings, stuffed peppers, London broil, cheese dip, tzatziki sauce, shepherd's pie, shrimp skewers, peri peri chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, baked salmon, quinoa salad, and roasted sweet potatoes.
- Serve and enjoy a wonderful meal 🙂