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Mexican Green Beans with Chili Oil and Cotija Recipe

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4.2 from 87 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful side dish of Mexican Green Beans cooked with a hint of chili oil, lemon juice, and topped with crumbly Cotija cheese for a perfect balance of spice, tang, and creaminess. Quick to prepare and ideal for serving hot or at room temperature.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 12-oz bag fresh green beans, trimmed

Seasonings & Oils

  • Olive oil to coat the pan
  • 1-2 Tablespoons water (for steaming)
  • Pinch of kosher salt (preferably Diamond brand)
  • Fresh ground black pepper to taste
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 1 Tablespoon chili oil (mild, medium, or hot according to preference)

Cheese

  • Cotija cheese (substitute with feta cheese if desired)

Instructions

  1. Steam the Green Beans: Coat a pan with a little olive oil and add about 1-2 tablespoons of water—just enough to create some steam. Add the trimmed green beans to the pan, cover, and cook over medium heat for a few minutes until they begin to soften but remain crisp.
  2. Season and Evaporate Water: Remove the lid and allow any remaining water to evaporate fully. Sprinkle the green beans with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon and 1 tablespoon of chili oil. Toss the beans thoroughly so every piece is evenly coated with the spicy, tangy flavors.
  3. Serve with Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and transfer the green beans to a serving plate. Sprinkle Cotija cheese liberally over the top (or use feta cheese as a substitute). Serve immediately hot or at room temperature to enjoy the dish at its best.

Notes

  • Adjust the chili oil amount to control the heat level to your liking—mild, medium, or hot.
  • If Cotija cheese is not available, feta cheese works well as a substitute.
  • Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors; avoid bottled lemon juice for best taste.
  • This dish can be served either hot or at room temperature, making it great for meal prep or potlucks.
  • Use kosher salt like Diamond brand for better texture and flavor.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/mexican-green-beans-with-chili-oil-and-cotija-recipe/