18 Flavorful Wax Bean Recipes Perfect for Summer

As summer arrives, the demand for fresh, seasonal ingredients only grows stronger. Among these, wax beans are a hidden gem that deserves to be highlighted. With their tender texture and mild flavor, they can elevate a wide range of dishes from simple side salads to hearty main courses. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping summer party recipe, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 flavorful wax bean recipes.

From classic sautéed preparations to creative twists on traditional fare, these recipes showcase the best of what wax beans have to offer. Try your hand at Garlic Butter Sautéed Wax Beans for a rich and savory side dish, or take it up a notch with Lemon Herb Roasted Wax Beans for a bright and refreshing twist.

Garlic Butter Sautéed Wax Beans

This recipe showcases the simplicity of cooking wax beans with a flavorful garlic butter sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the wax beans for 5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the beans and immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 1 minute).
4. Add the cooked wax beans to the saucepan with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the beans evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Lemon Herb Roasted Wax Beans

Brighten up your table with the sunny flavors of lemon and herbs, perfectly balanced on a bed of tender wax beans.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped thyme leaves
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons each)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and salt.
3. Add wax beans to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread the bean mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and squeeze with lemon juice. Season with pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Sesame Wax Bean Stir-Fry

A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines the nutty taste of sesame with the crunch of wax beans, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup wax beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the ginger and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the wax beans; stir-fry until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in the sesame oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the beans are tender but still crisp.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Crispy Parmesan Wax Bean Fries

Elevate your snack game with this innovative recipe that transforms wax beans into crispy, cheesy fries.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried wax beans
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings of your choice (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the dried wax beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the beans again. Cut them into fry-like strips, about 3-4 inches long.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the bean strips to the skillet in batches, if necessary, to avoid overcrowding.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional seasonings of your choice.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Bacon-Wrapped Wax Bean Bundles

Elevate your vegetable game with this creative and flavorful recipe, where tender wax beans are wrapped in crispy bacon for a delightful contrast of textures.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each wax bean with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
3. Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each bundle.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Honey Glazed Wax Beans with Almonds

A simple yet impressive side dish perfect for any occasion, these honey glazed wax beans are elevated by the crunch of toasted almonds.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the wax beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small saucepan, combine honey and 1 tablespoon water over medium heat.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Toss roasted wax beans with the honey glaze.
7. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Wax Bean and Tomato Salad with Feta

This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of wax beans and tomatoes with the tanginess of feta, all tied together with a light vinaigrette.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup wax beans, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced wax beans and diced tomatoes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean and tomato mixture; toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Creamy Wax Bean and Potato Soup

Warm up with this comforting, creamy soup featuring tender wax beans and potatoes.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound wax beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the wax beans, potatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Wax Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions

This hearty casserole is a comforting blend of tender wax beans, savory ground beef, and crispy onions, all wrapped up in a golden-brown crust.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crispy fried onions (see note)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook wax beans according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in milk, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked wax beans with meat mixture and transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with crispy fried onions.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.

Note: To make crispy fried onions, slice 1/2 cup of onion thinly and separate into individual rings. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess, then fry in hot oil (about 375°F) until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Pickled Wax Beans with Dill and Garlic

This recipe transforms tender wax beans into a tangy, flavorful condiment perfect for topping sandwiches or serving as a side dish. A burst of fresh dill and pungent garlic adds depth to the pickling liquid.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine vinegar, water, sugar, garlic, and dill in a saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Pack wax beans into a clean glass jar or container with tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour hot pickling liquid over the beans, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus refrigeration time)

Wax Bean and Mushroom Medley

This recipe brings together the tender sweetness of wax beans and the earthy flavor of mushrooms, creating a harmonious medley that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound wax beans, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
3. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add garlic to the pan and stir for 30 seconds.
6. Combine cooked beans and mushroom mixture in a serving dish.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Grilled Wax Beans with Balsamic Drizzle

Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with this simple yet impressive side dish. Grill tender wax beans to perfection, then drizzle with a rich balsamic glaze.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound wax beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the wax beans and pat dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the beans in batches until tender and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey to create the glaze.
5. Once the beans are grilled, drizzle the balsamic glaze over them and garnish with parsley leaves.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (including grilling time)

Wax Bean and Corn Succotash

This recipe combines the sweetness of summer corn with the tender flavor of wax beans, all wrapped up in a creamy, comforting succotash.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup wax beans, trimmed
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add wax beans, corn kernels, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to combine.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until succotash is heated through and lightly caramelized.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Wax Bean Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy

This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors, featuring tender wax beans, aromatic ginger, and savory soy sauce. A great side dish or light lunch option.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup wax beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the wax beans; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until they start to tenderize.
4. Pour in the soy sauce; stir-fry to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Wax Bean and Chickpea Curry

Wax Bean and Chickpea Curry Recipe

A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the natural sweetness of wax beans with the nuttiness of chickpeas, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried wax beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
4. Add wax beans and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until wax beans are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people

Wax Bean and Bacon Pasta Salad

Wax Bean and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe

A flavorful and refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of wax beans with the smokiness of bacon, all tossed together with cooked pasta and a tangy vinaigrette.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup wax beans, sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, wax beans, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Wax Bean and Carrot Slaw with Tahini Dressing

A refreshing twist on traditional slaws, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of wax beans and carrots with the creamy richness of tahini dressing.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup wax beans, trimmed
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine wax beans and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean-carrot mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
7. Serve chilled.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes)

Wax Bean and Sausage Skillet

A hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of wax beans, sausage, and potatoes for a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (15 oz) wax beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onion or bell peppers for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the cubed potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Add the wax beans to the skillet, stirring to combine with the potatoes.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Summary

Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 flavorful wax bean recipes perfect for summer! From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Sauteed Wax Beans and Spicy Sesame Wax Bean Stir-Fry, to sweet treats like Honey Glazed Wax Beans with Almonds and Pickled Wax Beans with Dill and Garlic. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a hearty main course, this collection of recipes has something for everyone. So why not give one (or two, or three…) a try and make the most of summer’s bounty?