This Green Beans with Candied Pecans recipe is a delightful blend of crisp, tender green beans and sweet, crunchy pecans, all ready in just 20 minutes. The vibrant green beans are perfectly balanced by the rich, caramelized coating of the pecans, creating a harmony of textures and flavors. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome, making it a standout side for any meal.
With a hint of buttery richness and a touch of natural sweetness, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying crunch, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough for special occasions. Every bite is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients!
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed (or substitute with frozen green beans, thawed)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (walnuts or almonds can be used as alternatives)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark, depending on preference)
- 2 Tablespoons butter (unsalted recommended for better control of saltiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (use freshly ground for best flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- While the beans cook, prepare an ice bath: fill a large bowl with ice water and place a colander inside. Once the beans are done, transfer them to the colander in the ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
- In a frying pan over medium-high heat, combine the pecans and brown sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar melts completely and coats the pecans evenly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Spread the candied pecans in an even layer on waxed paper and let cool. Break into smaller pieces if needed.
- In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the green beans and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and top with the candied pecans. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This Green Beans with Candied Pecans recipe is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Try serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a holiday ham for a balanced meal. For a vegetarian option, pair it with a quiche or stuffed portobello mushrooms. The sweet and savory flavors of the candied pecans add a delightful contrast to any dish!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
If you’re short on time, consider using pre-trimmed green beans from the grocery store to skip the trimming step. You can also candy the pecans ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the pecans in a pan for a minute or two to restore their crunch. These small adjustments can save you precious minutes without sacrificing flavor!
Storage and Reheating Made Easy
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the green beans in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Add the candied pecans just before serving to maintain their texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pecans soggy.
Recipe Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the candied nuts. If you prefer a tangy element, drizzle the finished dish with a bit of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Equipment Guidance for Success
To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need a large skillet for sautéing the green beans and candying the pecans, as well as a colander for blanching the beans. A slotted spoon is handy for transferring the pecans to waxed paper. If you don’t have waxed paper, parchment paper works just as well for cooling the candied pecans.
Green Beans with Candied Pecans Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place green beans in a large pan of boiling water.
- Place a colander in a large bowl of ice water; set aside.
- Cook beans for 5 minutes and transfer to colander in ice water to stop cooking then drain well.
- Place pecans and brown sugar in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Stir continually until the sugar is completely melted and pecans are evenly coated in melted sugar.
- Spread in an even layer on waxed paper until cool. Break apart into smaller pieces if necessary.
- Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat, add beans and saute until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Place beans in a serving dish and top with candied pecans.
- Serve immediately.