Runner Bean Recipes: From Simple Sides to Flavorful Mains

Runner beans, with their vibrant green color and tender texture, are a summer garden staple. But beyond simply boiling them, there's a world of delicious possibilities! This article explores a variety of runner bean recipes, catering to different tastes and skill levels. We'll cover everything from classic side dishes to more adventurous main course options, ensuring you'll never look at a runner bean the same way again.

Simple & Speedy Runner Bean Side Dishes

These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and healthy accompaniment to your meal.

1. Garlic Butter Runner Beans:

This recipe is incredibly easy and highlights the natural sweetness of the beans.

Ingredients:

• 500g runner beans, trimmed and halved or quartered (depending on size)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam or boil the runner beans until tender-crisp (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Melt the butter in a pan. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked runner beans to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

2. Lemon & Herb Runner Beans:

A bright and refreshing side dish that complements fish, chicken, or grilled meats.

Ingredients:

• 500g runner beans, trimmed and halved or quartered
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or oregano work well)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam or boil the runner beans until tender-crisp.
2. Heat the olive oil in a pan. Add the cooked runner beans, lemon juice, lemon zest, and herbs.
3. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Runner Beans as Part of a Heartier Meal

These recipes showcase runner beans as a key ingredient in more substantial dishes.

3. Runner Bean and Sausage Casserole:

A comforting and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

• 500g runner beans, trimmed and chopped
• 500g sausages (your choice of flavor)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400g chopped tomatoes
• 200ml vegetable stock
• Herbs (rosemary, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausages in a large pan. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic in the same pan until softened.
3. Add the runner beans, tomatoes, vegetable stock, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer, then add the sausages back to the pan.
5. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the runner beans are tender.

4. Runner Bean and Potato Curry:

A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian curry packed with vegetables. (Adapt to include meat if desired)

Ingredients:

• 500g runner beans, trimmed and chopped
• 500g potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• Vegetable stock (as needed)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a large pan until softened.
2. Add the curry powder, turmeric, and cumin and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the potatoes and runner beans, then stir in the coconut milk and enough vegetable stock to cover.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes and beans are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh coriander. Serve with rice or naan bread.

Tips for Preparing Runner Beans

• Trim the beans: Remove the stringy ends before cooking.
• Don't overcook: Runner beans should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Experiment with flavors: Runner beans pair well with many herbs, spices, and cheeses.
• Freeze for later: Runner beans freeze well, making them a convenient ingredient year-round.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. With their versatility, runner beans offer endless culinary possibilities. So, get creative and enjoy the bounty of your garden (or your local farmers market)! Remember to adjust seasoning to your preference and explore different flavour combinations to find your perfect runner bean recipe.