Okay, let's talk about green bean casserole. Yes, that green bean casserole. The one that might bring back memories of... well, let's just say it's often considered more of a guilty pleasure than a health food. But what if we could change that? What if we could take this classic dish and give it a nutritious, flavor-packed makeover?
Well, buckle up, because we're about to do just that! And the best part? You can use the amazing Menuistia app to tweak it to perfection and make it your own!
A Little History (with a Twist)
So, the green bean casserole has a bit of a funny backstory. It wasn't born in a cozy family kitchen, but in the test kitchens of the Campbell Soup Company way back in 1955. Now, while it might not have been a runaway success for them, it somehow found its way into our hearts, and onto our Thanksgiving tables. But, let's be honest, it's time for an upgrade, shall we?
Goodbye Bland, Hello Flavor!
This isn't your grandma's casserole, unless, of course, your grandma is a culinary genius with a penchant for healthy, delicious food. We're keeping the core elements - green beans, mushrooms, onions - but amping up the flavor and the nutrition.
Instead of just boiling the green beans until they are sad and mushy, we are going to give them a quick blanch to keep that bright green color. And the mushrooms and onions? We're going to saute them to golden perfection for that rich umami flavor. Then, we'll ditch the gloopy cream of mushroom soup and make our own creamy, dreamy sauce with real ingredients. Get ready for a cascade of flavors you never thought possible with a green bean casserole.
The Recipe Revolution:
Ingredients (easily customized in Menuistia)
- 2 lbs Fresh green beans, trimmed and ready to party
- 1 ½ lbs Cremini mushrooms, stemmed and sliced, ready for their close-up
- 2 Medium white onions, thinly sliced, adding sweetness and zest
- 1 cup Chicken or Vegetable broth, the liquid gold of flavor
- ½ cup Grated parmesan cheese, because cheese makes everything better
- 1 cup Fried onions, for that classic crunch (you can make your own healthier version too!)
- 8 tbsp Unsalted butter or 1 stick, divided - yes, butter, for rich flavor
- 5 cloves of garlic, sliced, for an extra kick
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative!), the sauce's best friend
- 1 cup Milk (dairy or non-dairy), for that silky smooth texture
- ½ cup Heavy cream (or a plant-based alternative), adding richness
- 2 tsp Kosher salt, to bring out all the flavors
- 1 tsp Freshly cracked black pepper, for a hint of spice
Instructions (simplified for success using Menuistia)
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. We want that heat!
- Give your green beans a quick 3-minute dip in boiling water, drain and transfer to your casserole dish.
- Sauté your onions in half the butter until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook until slightly browned, then add the garlic. Transfer to the casserole dish with the green beans.
- In the same pan, melt the remaining butter, add the flour and cook for 5 minutes stirring continuously. Gradually whisk in the milk, cream, broth, parmesan, salt and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and is creamy.
- Pour the sauce over the green beans and mushroom mixture and stir to coat everything evenly.
- Bake covered with foil for 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes.
Serve it Up!
Top it off with some fried onions for that irresistible crunch and you've got a green bean casserole that's not only delicious but good for you too. It’s perfect for a holiday side dish or any family meal. With a few simple tweaks you can create a healthy dish that you are happy to share, not feel guilty about!
Don't be afraid to experiment with the ingredients. Maybe add some different herbs, spices or even some toasted nuts? The beauty of cooking is that you can make it your own. And with the help of the Menuistia app, creating healthy and delicious meals has never been easier. Happy cooking!