Looking for a side dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious? This Green Beans with Mushrooms Recipe is the perfect combination of fresh, crunchy green beans and savory mushrooms, creating a delicious pairing that will satisfy both veggie lovers and picky eaters alike. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just a quick weeknight meal, this dish is a must-try. Continue reading for step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and helpful tips to ensure your green beans with mushrooms turn out perfectly every time!

What Are Green Beans with Mushrooms?
Green Beans with Mushrooms is a savory and simple dish made by sautéing or steaming fresh green beans with a variety of mushrooms, usually seasoned with garlic, herbs, and sometimes a touch of lemon or parmesan for added flavor. This dish is a healthy, low-calorie side that pairs well with many main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled steak, or even a vegetarian meal.
Why You Should Try This Recipe:
- Easy to make with minimal prep and cook time.
- Nutritious and low-calorie, packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Versatile – perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or everyday meals.
Ingredients List for Green Beans with Mushrooms
To make Green Beans with Mushrooms, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Fresh Green Beans – About 1 lb (450 grams), ends trimmed.
- Mushrooms – 8 oz (225 grams), cleaned and sliced. Cremini, button, or shiitake mushrooms work well for this recipe.
- Olive Oil or Butter – 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
- Garlic – 2-3 cloves, minced.
- Shallots or Onions – 1 small shallot or ½ small onion, finely chopped (optional but recommended).
- Fresh Herbs – 1-2 teaspoons of fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste.
- Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon, for a bright, tangy flavor (optional).
- Parmesan Cheese – ¼ cup grated, for garnish (optional).
Optional Add-Ins:
- Red Pepper Flakes – For a little heat.
- Balsamic Glaze – For a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Toasted Almonds or Pine Nuts – For added crunch and texture.
Substitutions and Variations
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your dietary preferences or available ingredients. Here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:
- Green Beans: If you don’t have fresh green beans, you can use frozen green beans, though they might be slightly less crisp. Haricot verts (thin French green beans) are also a great alternative for a more delicate texture.
- Mushrooms: If cremini or button mushrooms aren’t available, feel free to substitute with shiitake, oyster, or even portobello mushrooms. Each type of mushroom will add a unique flavor and texture.
- Olive Oil vs. Butter: For a richer flavor, you can use butter instead of olive oil, or do a mix of both. For a vegan version, stick with olive oil or use plant-based butter.
- Herbs: While thyme or rosemary adds a wonderful earthiness, you can also use parsley, basil, or dill, depending on your taste.
- Add Protein: Add some cooked bacon bits, crumbled sausage, or sautéed tofu for an extra layer of texture and protein, making it a heartier dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Green Beans with Mushrooms:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
- Start by trimming the ends off the green beans. Wash them thoroughly under cold water and pat dry.
- Blanch the green beans by boiling them in salted water for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
- Once the oil is hot, add the sliced mushrooms. Spread them in a single layer and let them cook without stirring for about 2-3 minutes to allow them to brown.
- Stir the mushrooms, add a pinch of salt, and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they are golden and softened. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Shallots
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
- Add the minced garlic and shallots (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until they are fragrant and translucent.
Step 4: Combine and Cook Together
- Add the blanched green beans back into the skillet, along with the cooked mushrooms.
- Toss everything together to combine, then season with salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs you’re using (like thyme or rosemary).
- Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Serve
- If you’re using lemon juice, drizzle it over the green beans and mushrooms right before serving to add a bright, zesty flavor.
- Optionally, top with grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
How to Cook Green Beans with Mushrooms: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a simplified breakdown of how to make Green Beans with Mushrooms:
- Trim and blanch the green beans.
- Sauté mushrooms until browned and set aside.
- Cook garlic and shallots until fragrant.
- Combine the green beans, mushrooms, and season with herbs.
- Finish with lemon juice and serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Green Beans with Mushrooms turn out perfect, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the Green Beans: Be sure to blanch the green beans for just 2-3 minutes and immediately transfer them to ice water. Overcooking will result in mushy beans.
- Crowding the Mushrooms: When cooking mushrooms, don’t overcrowd the skillet. Mushrooms release moisture as they cook, and crowding them will cause them to steam rather than brown.
- Skipping the Ice Bath: The ice bath is essential for preserving the bright green color and crisp texture of the green beans.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How you serve and present this dish can elevate it from a simple side to a show-stopping addition to your meal.
How to Serve Green Beans with Mushrooms
Serve this dish as a side to any protein such as grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It also pairs wonderfully with holiday meals like Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas roasts. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
Presentation Ideas for Green Beans with Mushrooms
- Platter Presentation: Serve the green beans and mushrooms on a large, white serving platter for an elegant look. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan or toasted nuts for extra flair.
- Individual Portions: Serve in small bowls or ramekins for individual portions, especially if it’s part of a holiday meal.
- Color Contrast: For a more visually striking presentation, sprinkle the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Green Beans with Mushrooms Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead: You can blanch the green beans and sauté the mushrooms ahead of time. Just reheat everything in a skillet when ready to serve.
- Flavor Boost: For even more flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or vegetable broth to the pan when sautéing the garlic and shallots.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?
A: Fresh green beans are highly recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, in a pinch, you can use canned green beans, but be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly.
Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Absolutely! Just use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative and skip the parmesan cheese.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even asparagus for more variety and flavor.
Conclusion
This Green Beans with Mushrooms Recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With fresh green beans, savory mushrooms, and a simple seasoning of garlic and herbs, this dish is packed with flavor while being low in calories and rich in nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a weeknight dinner, this versatile recipe is perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!
PrintGreen Beans With Mushrooms Recipe
This delicious Green Beans with Mushrooms recipe combines sautéed mushrooms, fresh green beans, garlic, and butter for a flavorful, healthy side dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals, it’s an easy and nutritious way to enjoy veggies. Keywords: Green beans with mushrooms, sautéed vegetables, healthy side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they release moisture and start to brown.
- Add the blanched green beans to the pan and toss everything together.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or lemon juice.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then serve hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or toasted almonds.
- To keep this dish vegan, substitute butter with olive oil.
- Use baby bella or cremini mushrooms for a richer taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
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