Description
This Summer Mediterranean Green Bean Casserole is a fresh, healthy, and delicious twist on the classic green bean casserole. Featuring crisp-tender green beans, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, this dish is tossed in a light lemon-herb dressing and baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a vibrant, nutrient-packed side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a standalone vegetarian main course. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or weeknight dinners!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed (or frozen, thawed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed or dry)
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
- Blanch the green beans (optional): Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Pat dry with paper towels. (Skip blanching if using frozen green beans.)
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the green beans, sautéed tomato mixture, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add half of the crumbled feta cheese and gently mix to combine. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Make the Topping
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is heated through.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Add final touches: Sprinkle the remaining feta cheese over the top of the casserole after baking. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy warm as a side dish or pair with grilled proteins for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 25 Minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
