Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge the beans into ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their color. Drain again and set aside.
Prepare the Tahini Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and warm water. Add more water as needed to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, whisk in olive oil for added richness.
Toss the Beans: Place the blanched green beans in a serving dish. Pour the tahini sauce over the beans, tossing gently to ensure they are well coated.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the green beans with toasted sesame seeds and, if using, chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Adjusting Consistency: The thickness of tahini can vary by brand. Adjust the amount of warm water to achieve the desired sauce consistency.Serving Suggestions: These green beans are a versatile side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish. They're also a great addition to a vegetarian or vegan feast.Storage: If there are leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish is best served at room temperature or gently reheated.