Festive Green Beans with Butternut Squash, Pecans & Cranberries

Description

Festive Green Beans with Butternut Squash, Pecans & Cranberries

Add a burst of color to your holiday table with this festive side dish! These Green Beans with Butternut Squash, Pecans, and Cranberries are not only vibrant but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dish combines classic holiday flavors with a fresh twist. The combination of tender butternut squash, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries will leave your guests wanting more. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and super easy to make in just 30 minutes!

1 lb butternut squash, peeled & cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
12 oz green beans, trimmed
1 cup pecans
½ cup dried cranberries
2 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp lemon juice

Directions:
1. Roast squash at 400°F for 20-25 mins.
2. Boil green beans for 3-5 mins, rinse in cold water.
3. Toast pecans at 350°F for 5 mins.
4. Combine all ingredients, drizzle with maple-lemon mix.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 236 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper on a baking sheet. Spread in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized at the edges.
2. While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately drain and plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and lock in the color. Drain again and pat dry.
3. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a separate baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until fragrant. Let them cool slightly, then chop roughly.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and lemon juice to create the dressing.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine the roasted squash, blanched green beans, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries. Drizzle the maple-lemon dressing over the top and toss gently to combine. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish complements a wide array of main courses. Serve it warm or at room temperature alongside a classic holiday roast turkey or glazed ham. For a fully plant-based feast, it pairs beautifully with a lentil loaf or stuffed acorn squash. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for an extra festive touch. Any leftovers make a fantastic cold salad for the next day.

How-to Summary

Roast cubed butternut squash. Blanch and shock green beans to retain crispness and color. Toast pecans for enhanced flavor. Whisk maple syrup and lemon juice for dressing. Combine all components and toss gently. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the components up to a day in advance. Store the roasted squash, blanched beans, toasted pecans, and dressing separately in the fridge. Combine and toss just before serving to maintain the best texture.

What can I substitute for butternut squash? Sweet potato or acorn squash are excellent substitutes. Adjust roasting time as needed based on the cube size and density of the alternative.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The green beans will soften but the flavors will remain delicious.

Can I use frozen green beans? You can, but fresh beans provide superior texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and pat them very dry before adding to the mix to prevent sogginess.

Is there a nut-free alternative to pecans? For a nut-free version, substitute toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Green Beans: Blanching for too long results in mushy, dull-colored beans. Use the ice bath to halt cooking instantly.
• Skipping the Toasting Step: Toasting the pecans is crucial for unlocking their rich, nutty flavor. Raw pecans will taste bland.
• Crowding the Baking Sheet: Ensure the butternut squash is in a single layer when roasting. Overcrowding steams the squash instead of roasting it, preventing proper caramelization.
• Adding Dressing Too Early: Combining the dressing long before serving can make the green beans wilt and the pecans lose their crunch. Toss just before serving.

Conclusion

This Festive Green Beans dish is the ultimate holiday side, masterfully balancing sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with varied textures. Its vibrant colors brighten any table, while its simple preparation and make-ahead potential ease kitchen stress. Nutritious, allergen-friendly, and universally appealing, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your seasonal celebrations for years to come.