Vegan Green Bean Casserole – Affordable Food Ideas

Before we dive into the magic of Vegan Green Bean Casserole, let’s think about what you can serve alongside this delicious dish. Pairing is key. 

Try serving the casserole with stuffed bell peppers—filled with quinoa and black beans, they bring a nice balance of flavors and textures. Chickpea salad, tossed with cucumbers and a zesty dressing, offers freshness to complement the savory casserole.

Feeling adventurous? Consider a zesty pasta salad dotted with cherry tomatoes and olives that can brighten up the table. And how about some roasted sweet potatoes? 

Their sweetness creates an exciting contrast, enhancing your meal experience. Now, let’s get into the heart of the matter.

What is Vegan Green Bean Casserole?

At its core, Vegan Green Bean Casserole is a twist on the classic dish. Traditionally, it’s made with creamy soups and buttery green beans, often capped with crispy fried onions. But fear not! My version maintains that same comforting essence. 

We swap out the dairy for creamy alternatives, keeping it wholesome and entirely plant-based.

Imagine fresh green beans simmered until perfectly tender, coated in a luscious, flavorful sauce. 

Add in some sautéed shallots and garlic, blend with mushrooms for umami richness, and top it off with crispy fried onions. It’s pure comfort on a plate.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works beautifully for several reasons. For one, fresh green beans retain their crispness even after baking. 

The balance of flavors from the garlic and shallots gives each bite a delightful kick. The creamy sauce made from unsweetened almond milk comes together harmoniously to coat the vegetables. Topping it off with crunchy fried onions? A match made in heaven.

Moreover, the ingredients are easy to find and are affordable. The recipe allows for flexibility, letting you be creative with what you have in your pantry. Everyone deserves a taste of comfort food, right?

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh green beans (rinsed, ends trimmed, and cut in half)

– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– 1 teaspoon soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

– 2 tablespoons plant-based butter or extra virgin olive oil

– 1 medium shallot, finely minced

– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 cup chopped mushrooms (button, cremini, or baby bella)

– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

– 3/4 cup vegetable stock

– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk

– 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions

How to Make Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Let’s get our hands dirty—figuratively speaking, of course. Here’s how to put this masterpiece together. Ready? I promise it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Prepare Your Green Beans

Start by rinsing your fresh green beans. Trim the ends and cut them in half. This helps them cook evenly. You can put them in boiling water for a quick blanching, about three minutes, before plunging them into ice water. This will keep their bright color and crisp texture.

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt the plant-based butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced shallots and garlic. Sauté them until they’re fragrant and the shallots turn translucent—about four minutes.

Step 3: Add the Mushrooms

Now, add the chopped mushrooms to your skillet. Stir them in and allow them to soften, releasing their moisture—which coincidentally enhances the flavor of your sauce. Continue cooking for about five minutes and stir occasionally.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Time to create the creamy goodness! Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for a minute or so, then gradually pour in the vegetable stock, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Follow this with the almond milk, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Cook until the sauce thickens, usually around five minutes. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

In a casserole dish, combine your blanched green beans with the sauce. Mix well, ensuring every bean is coated. 

Now, sprinkle half of the crispy fried onions over the top. Finally, bake this deliciousness in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Crispy Onions

After baking, pull it out, and immediately top with the remaining crispy fried onions. This adds an irresistible crunch. If you like them extra crispy, you can place it back in the oven for a couple more minutes.

Tips for Success

1. Blanching is Key: Briefly boiling the green beans preserves their crunch and color. This step should not be skipped!
   
2. Choosing Mushrooms: While any mushroom will work, I recommend baby bellas for their stronger flavor.
   
3. Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Salt and pepper elevate the dish. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
   
4. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate before baking!
   
5. Crispy Topping Ideas: If you want something different, try whole-wheat breadcrumbs mixed with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be a blessing! Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or stovetop until warmed through. The onions may lose some crispiness, but the flavor remains delightful.

How Would I Recommend Serving Vegan Green Bean Casserole?

Here are a few ways to make the most of this dish:

1. As a Side Dish: Pair it with a simple grain like quinoa or farro. This balance creates a filling plate with flavors that complement each other.
   
2. On a Bed of Greens: Serve it atop a bed of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. This adds freshness and a slight tang that balances the casserole’s creaminess.
   
3. As a Main Dish: Make it the star by adding roasted vegetables on the side. Things like sweet potatoes or carrots work beautifully and add an extra layer of nutrients.
   
4. With Homemade Bread: Offer fresh or toasted bread to soak up the sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest—who doesn’t love a good bread dunk?
   

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?

Sometimes you may find yourself short on an ingredient. Here are several substitutes that can work just as well:

1. Green Beans: If you can’t find fresh green beans, frozen ones will do. Simply thaw and add them in without blanching.
   
2. Almond Milk: Coconut milk or cashew milk are viable alternatives if almond milk isn’t available. Each brings its unique flavor, giving the dish a twist.
   
3. Soy Sauce: Tamari is an excellent gluten-free alternative, and Worcestershire sauce provides a different flavor profile.
   
4. Fried Onions: If you prefer a homemade touch, sautéed onions or crushed crackers can bring the crispy element without the need for store-bought options.
   

Conclusion

In closing, Vegan Green Bean Casserole is more than just a side dish. It’s a versatile, heartwarming dish that shows how easy it can be to enjoy healthy plant-based food. Trust me; this will be a staple in your kitchen for gatherings and family dinners alike. 

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this easy, savory delight. You’re not just cooking; you’re creating moments of joy and connection. 

Enjoy every bite!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
• How to Make Lemony Shrimp And Bean Stew
• How To Make Cauliflower Rice

Vegan Green Bean Casserole – Affordable Food Ideas

that can be enjoyed at any gathering. 

As a registered dietitian, I have spent countless hours in the kitchen refining recipes that prioritize health without sacrificing taste. This casserole has earned a spot in my collection due to its simplicity and its ability to please a crowd.

You might wonder, why vegan? Well, switching to plant-based meals can contribute positively to our health and the environment. It’s time to go green—in more ways than one!

Author: April Cherry Cuisine: Vegan Courses: Appetizer & Side Dish

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Servings: 4 Calories: 273 kcal Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Servings

• 1 pound fresh green beans (rinsed, ends trimmed, and cut in half)
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons plant-based butter or extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium shallot, finely minced
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 cup chopped mushrooms (button, cremini, or baby bella)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ³⁄₄ cup vegetable stock
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups crispy fried onions

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Green Beans

1. Start by rinsing your fresh green beans. Trim the ends and cut them in half. This helps them cook evenly. You can put them in boiling water for a quick blanching, about three minutes, before plunging them into ice water. This will keep their bright color and crisp texture.

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

1. In a large skillet, melt the plant-based butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced shallots and garlic. Sauté them until they’re fragrant and the shallots turn translucent—about four minutes.

Step 3: Add the Mushrooms

1. Now, add the chopped mushrooms to your skillet. Stir them in and allow them to soften, releasing their moisture—which coincidentally enhances the flavor of your sauce. Continue cooking for about five minutes and stir occasionally.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Time to create the creamy goodness! Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for a minute or so, then gradually pour in the vegetable stock, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Follow this with the almond milk, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Cook until the sauce thickens, usually around five minutes. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

1. In a casserole dish, combine your blanched green beans with the sauce. Mix well, ensuring every bean is coated.

   Now, sprinkle half of the crispy fried onions over the top. Finally, bake this deliciousness in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Crispy Onions

1. After baking, pull it out, and immediately top with the remaining crispy fried onions. This adds an irresistible crunch. If you like them extra crispy, you can place it back in the oven for a couple more minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 270kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 15.4g24%

Saturated Fat 9.3g47%

Cholesterol 9mg3%

Sodium 112mg5%

Total Carbohydrate 29g10%

Dietary Fiber 4g16%

Sugars 7g

Protein 7g15%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Blanching is Key: Briefly boiling the green beans preserves their crunch and color. This step should not be skipped!
  
• Choosing Mushrooms: While any mushroom will work, I recommend baby bellas for their stronger flavor.
  
• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Salt and pepper elevate the dish. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
  
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate before baking!
  
• Crispy Topping Ideas: If you want something different, try whole-wheat breadcrumbs mixed with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Keywords: vegan green bean casserole