Introduction
Fasolka szparagowa po grecku, or green beans à la Greek, is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh flavors of green beans with the tanginess of tomatoes and the richness of olive oil. This recipe is perfect for a light side dish or as part of a larger meal. It’s not only delicious but also vibrant and visually appealing, making it a favorite in many households.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Green beans – 500 grams
Onions – 1 medium-sized
Carrots – 2 medium-sized
Garlic – 2 cloves
Tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) – 400 grams
Olive oil – 4 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Parsley – for garnish
Prep Time
Preparation time for fasolka szparagowa po grecku is approximately 15 minutes. This includes washing and trimming the green beans, chopping the onions and carrots, and peeling the garlic.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 25 minutes. Thus, the total time for preparing this dish is around 40 minutes. The recipe yields about 4 servings, making it a great choice for family meals or gatherings. Enjoy this healthy and delicious dish that captures the essence of Greek cuisine!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients: fresh green beans, olive oil, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices.
Clean the Green Beans
Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold running water. Trim off the ends of the beans to prepare them for cooking.
Boil the Beans
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
Drain the Beans
After boiling, drain the beans in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Chop fresh tomatoes and add them to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Stir well and allow to cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften.
Combine Beans with Tomato Mixture
Add the drained green beans to the pan with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together gently to combine and heat through.
Serve the Dish
Once everything is well combined and heated, transfer the mixture to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Leftover green beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with grilled meats or can be served as a vegetarian main course.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to enhance the dish.
Cook techniques
Steaming
Steaming green beans retains their vibrant color and nutrients, making it a healthy cooking method.
Sautéing
Sautéing green beans with onions and garlic enhances their flavor and gives them a delightful texture.
Seasoning
Using herbs and spices in the preparation adds depth to the dish, creating a more complex flavor profile.
Blanching
Blanching green beans in boiling water before sautéing helps to soften them while maintaining their crunchiness.
Presentation
Arranging the finished dish attractively on a plate can elevate the dining experience.
FAQ
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
You can use butter, avocado oil, or any preferred cooking oil as a substitute.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover green beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can complement the green beans well.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, this dish can be made in advance and reheated as needed.
Conclusion
The Greek-style green beans recipe is a delightful dish that brings out the unique flavors of fresh ingredients. The combination of green beans, tomatoes, onions, and herbs creates a wholesome and satisfying meal. This dish not only complements various main courses but also stands out as a tempting vegetarian option, making it a perfect addition to any dining table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Green Bean Salad with Feta and Olives
Combine steamed green beans with crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a simple lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the same Greek seasoning applied in the green bean recipe to stuff bell peppers with a mixture of quinoa, diced tomatoes, and herbs.
Pasta with Green Bean Pesto
Create a vibrant pesto sauce using blanched green beans, garlic, nuts, and olive oil, then toss it with your favorite pasta.
Roasted Vegetable Medley
Add roasted green beans, carrots, and zucchini to enhance your vegetable medley, seasoned with rosemary and thyme for a rustic dish.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Incorporate green beans into a vegetable stir-fry with bok choy, carrots, and snap peas, drizzled with a soy sauce-based dressing.
