Get ready to revolutionize your cooking routine with this mouthwatering green bean and quinoa side dish that's not just a meal, but a culinary experience! Imagine a vibrant, nutritious dish that can be prepared ahead of time, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress your family and guests. This make-ahead side dish combines the crispy roasted green beans, protein-rich quinoa, and tangy feta cheese into a symphony of taste and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Various
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions
- Prepare your mise en place by washing and trimming green beans, halving cherry tomatoes, and measuring out all spices and ingredients.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss trimmed green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread seasoned green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting.
- Roast green beans in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are tender and slightly crispy at the edges.
- While green beans are roasting, prepare quinoa according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly after cooking.
- Remove green beans from oven and let them cool for 5-10 minutes at room temperature.
- In a serving dish, layer cooled quinoa as a base, then arrange roasted green beans on top.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the green beans and quinoa.
- Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes for added color and fresh flavor.
- For make-ahead preparation, store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving to maintain texture.
Tips
- Meal Prep Magic: Prepare the green beans and quinoa separately and store them in airtight containers. This allows you to assemble the dish quickly when needed, maintaining optimal texture and freshness.
- Roasting Perfection: Ensure green beans are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet to achieve that perfect crispy edge. Overcrowding will steam the beans instead of roasting them.
- Temperature Matters: Let roasted green beans cool for a few minutes before assembling to prevent the feta from melting completely and maintain the dish's distinct textures.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to add toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts for extra crunch, or swap feta with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Storage Hack: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
