Garlic Parmesan Crumb Roasted Green Beans (Vegan)
Recipe Highlights
These roasted green beans are coated in a cashew parmesan breadcrumb mixture that crisps up in the oven. The combination works for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.
The key is drying the beans thoroughly before tossing them with oil—any moisture prevents proper roasting, and the breadcrumbs won’t stick well.
The vegan parmesan is made from cashews, nutritional yeast, and garlic powder, processed into a fine crumb, creating a savory, umami-rich base that mimics traditional parmesan. Mixing it with panko adds texture and helps everything crisp up.
The breadcrumbs that don’t stick to the beans get spread on the baking tray—these become extra crispy bits to sprinkle over the top before serving.
Ingredients
Step by Step
Variations
For brightness: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after roasting to lift the flavors.
For smokiness: Toss a pinch of smoked paprika through the parmesan mixture before coating the beans.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The breadcrumbs will soften when stored, but you can re-crisp them in a 200°C oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
These don’t freeze well, as the breadcrumbs lose their texture when thawed.
TIP: You can use normal breadcrumbs; the topping just won’t be as crispy.
Serving Ideas
For weeknight dinners:
- Pair with Leek and Mushroom White Sauce Pasta for a quick 30-minute meal.
- Add to Buddha Bowls as a roasted vegetable component.
- Serve alongside quick grain dishes like this Eggplant and Mushroom Quinoa Risotto.
For entertaining:
- Pair with Creamy Mushroom Risotto for an Italian-inspired meal.
- Serve alongside Wholesome Lentil Lasagna for a hearty dinner.
- Serve with Vegan Jollof Rice — the crispy green beans add fresh contrast to the rich one-pot rice dish.
- Pair with Rich Vegan Pot Pie with TVP to add a green side dish.
- Include as part of a holiday buffet with multiple sides like Creamy Potato Gratin, Chargrilled Red Peppers in Garlic Parsley Oil, or this Herb Potato Salad (No-Mayo)
Garlic Parmesan Crumb Roasted Green Beans (Vegan)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sides
Description
A quick vegan side dish with crispy cashew parmesan breadcrumbs. These roasted green beans are ready in 25 minutes and perfect for entertaining or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces / 400g fresh green beans, trimming the ends
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Garlic Parmesan Breadcrumbs:
- ¼ cup / 35g raw cashews
- 1/8 cup / 9g nutritional yeast
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅓ cup / 20g panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F / 220°C and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Prepare green beans: Trim the ends of the green beans, then wash and dry them well—any moisture will prevent them from roasting well.
- Season beans: To a bowl, add the green beans, olive oil, and salt and toss well to coat them evenly. Set aside.
- Make parmesan mixture: To a small food processor, add the cashews (¼ cup), nutritional yeast (1/8 cup), garlic powder (½ teaspoon), salt (¼ teaspoon), and black pepper (¼ teaspoon). Pulse until you reach a fine crumb.
- Add breadcrumbs: Transfer the mixture to a bowl, then add the panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Stir to combine everything well.
- Coat beans: Add the breadcrumb mixture to the beans and mix until the beans are well-covered.
- Arrange on tray: Spread beans in a single layer on the baking tray and top with the remaining breadcrumb mixture.*
- Bake: Place in the oven to bake for 10-12 minutes. Keeping a close eye on them from 10 minutes to make sure the crumb doesn’t burn.
- Serve: Transfer the beans to a serving platter, and top with the parmesan breadcrumbs. Serve straight away.
Notes
Use fresh green beans: Frozen beans contain excess moisture from blanching, which interferes with roasting and prevents the coating from adhering properly.
Arrange in a single layer: Give the beans enough space on the tray—overcrowding traps steam and prevents them from developing a crispy exterior.
