Pesto Green Beans Recipe: Easy Basil Roasted Vegetables

Transform ordinary green beans into an extraordinary side dish with this simple pesto green beans recipe. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while the basil pesto adds incredible Italian-inspired flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, these pesto roasted beans come together in just 20 minutes!

If you love quick vegetable sides, you might also enjoy our Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Green Beans for another fast option.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash and thoroughly dry the green beans, then trim the ends.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the green beans to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the pesto mixture.
5. Spread the green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Roast for 12-15 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the beans are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and immediately toss with lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
8. Garnish with toasted pine nuts if desired, and serve warm.

Expert Tips

• For extra crispy green beans, make sure they’re completely dry before tossing with pesto
• Use homemade pesto for the freshest flavor, or quality store-bought pesto works great too
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – this ensures even roasting and proper browning
• These pesto green beans pair beautifully with Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for a complete meal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but thaw and pat them completely dry first. Frozen beans may release more moisture during roasting.

How long do leftovers keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.

What other vegetables work with pesto?
This method works wonderfully with asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini. For more vegetable inspiration, try our Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans.

These vibrant pesto green beans make the perfect alternative to pasta sides and add beautiful color to any meal. They’re especially delicious alongside Creamy Herb Chicken with Roasted Potatoes for an elegant dinner combination.

Pesto Green Beans Recipe: Easy Basil Roasted Vegetables

Transform ordinary green beans into an extraordinary side dish with this simple pesto green beans recipe. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while the basil pesto adds incredible Italian-inspired flavor, coming together in just 20 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash and thoroughly dry the green beans, then trim the ends.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the green beans to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the pesto mixture.
5. Spread the green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Roast for 12-15 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the beans are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and immediately toss with lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
8. Garnish with toasted pine nuts if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For extra crispy green beans, make sure they’re completely dry before tossing with pesto. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – this ensures even roasting and proper browning.