Cheesy Green Bean and Yams Bake

This Cheesy Green Bean and Yams Bake combines tender green beans with sweet yams, topped with melted cheddar cheese and a buttery cornbread crumble. The dish is savory yet slightly sweet, making it a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It's a perfect side dish for gatherings or a comforting addition to any meal, while being vegetarian-friendly.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 medium yams, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cornbread, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the yams and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the green beans and blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until bright green. Drain and shock in ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked yams, blanched green beans, cooked rice, chopped celery, sliced green onions, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the crumbled cornbread with melted butter until combined. Sprinkle the cornbread mixture over the cheese layer.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the cornbread topping is golden brown.
8. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!