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Thai Green Curry Coconut Green Bean Casserole

Miranda | The Herby Eater
A Thanksgiving glow-up of the classic green bean casserole that brings tropical flavors to the holiday table. Crisp freshly blanched green beans coated in a creamy coconut-lime sauce with herby undertones and a toasted coconut-panko topping.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, fusion
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • High-speed blender or immersion blender
  • 9x9 or medium baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet for topping
  • Zester or microplane

Ingredients
  

For the Coconut-Lime Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
  • 1 small shallot diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp mild green curry paste
  • 1 13.5 oz can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • 2 tsp nutritional yeast
  • salt and pepper to taste

For the Casserole:

  • 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed and blanched
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms optional, but recommended

For the Crispy Coconut Topping:

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley or thai basil
  • Pinch of salt

For Garnish:

  • Extra lime zest
  • Fresh basil or cilantro leaves
  • Thinly sliced red chili optional, for spicy lovers

Instructions
 

  • Blanch green beans in salted boiling water for 3–4 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add shallot, garlic, and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
  • Stir in green curry paste and cook 30 seconds to bloom flavor.
  • Pour in coconut milk, soy sauce, maple syrup, and nutritional yeast.
  • Simmer 5–6 minutes until thickened slightly, stirring often.
  • Add lime juice and zest; season with salt and pepper.
  • Combine green beans (and mushrooms if using) with the sauce in a large bowl. Transfer to baking dish.
  • In a skillet, toast panko, coconut, and cashews with oil until golden. Stir in parsley and a pinch of salt.
  • Sprinkle topping over the casserole and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until bubbling and golden.
  • Garnish with lime zest, basil, and chili slices. Serve warm.

Notes

Use full-fat coconut milk for best result and creaminess; lite versions can separate!
To make ahead, assemble without topping, refrigerate overnight, then top and bake before serving.
For extra punch, drizzle with basil oil before serving.
Keyword Dairy-Free, Herby, Holiday, Plant Based, Side Dish, Vegan, Vegetarian