Greek string beans in tomato sauce was a delightful cooking experience. The dish combines the earthy flavor of green beans with the rich, tangy essence of San Marzano tomatoes.
The fragrant garlic and onion sautéing in olive oil create an inviting aroma, setting the tone for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted potatoes, or even as a stand-alone vegetarian dish.
I chose to make it because it’s a wholesome, vibrant option that appeals to a variety of tastes. The fresh herbs, like dill and parsley, elevate the flavors, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
It’s a versatile base for any meal, balancing savory and slightly sweet notes. My family enjoys it, and there’s always joy in seeing everyone savor a dish made from love and fresh ingredients.
The kitchen was filled with laughter as the food came together!
How To Prepare Greek String Beans In Tomato Sauce?
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Course: Main or Side Dish
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Greek
- Calories: ~250 per serving (may vary depending on ingredients)
- Yield: 4 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener (for tomatoes)
- Ladle (optional for serving)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz can of San Marzano tomatoes (e.g., Gustarosso)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Trim the green beans and cut them into 2-inch pieces.Chop the onion, garlic, parsley, and dill.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Stir in the San Marzano tomatoes (with juice), sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), dried oregano, and dried thyme.Add the water or vegetable broth and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Green Beans:
Add the green beans to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated with the tomato sauce.Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the fresh parsley and dill just before serving to preserve their fresh flavors.
6. Serve:
Serve the Greek string beans hot, garnished with extra fresh parsley and dill. Enjoy as a side dish or a light main course.
Note
Greek String Beans in Tomato Sauce is a traditional Mediterranean dish that can be easily adapted to fit your taste preferences.
It’s simple to make and the ingredients are often available in most grocery stores. You can enjoy it hot or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Greek String Beans In Tomato Sauce is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:
➨Pair this dish with grilled meats like lamb, chicken, or fish.
➨Serve the beans over a bed of rice or couscous to turn it into a hearty, filling meal.
➨The tomato sauce is perfect for dipping with warm, crusty bread on the side.
Tips and Variations:
1. Add potatoes:
Some people love adding diced potatoes to the dish for extra heartiness. Simply cube the potatoes and add them to the pot when you add the green beans.
2. Spice it up:
If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped chili peppers to the sauce.
3. Vegan version:
This dish is naturally vegan and vegetarian, but if you prefer a non-vegan version, feel free to add crumbled feta cheese on top before serving for a Greek twist.
4. Use fresh herbs:
While dried oregano and thyme work great, fresh herbs like basil or dill can bring an additional fresh flavor to the dish.
Health Benefits
➤Rich in fiber: Green beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
➤Packed with antioxidants: Tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants like lycopene, which are known to promote heart health and protect against certain types of cancer.
➤Low in calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
➤Heart-healthy fats: The olive oil used in this recipe is full of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw them first, or add them directly to the pot and adjust the cooking time slightly. They may need a little extra time to soften compared to fresh beans.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Greek String Beans in Tomato Sauce actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. You can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, you can! While the traditional recipe is vegetarian, adding meat such as ground lamb or chicken can enhance the flavor. If you’re adding meat, brown it in the pot before adding the tomatoes and green beans to the sauce.
What can I serve this dish with?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods. It makes a perfect side to grilled meats or fish. You can also serve it with rice, couscous, or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, Greek String Beans in Tomato Sauce is naturally vegan and vegetarian. The recipe is made using plant-based ingredients, so it’s a great option for anyone following a vegan or plant-based diet. Just skip the feta topping if you want to keep it fully vegan!
Conclusion
Greek string beans in tomato sauce is a standout dish that effortlessly combines fresh ingredients and rich flavors, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Its balance of savory, tangy, and herby notes offers a delicious base that pairs well with a variety of foods, from grilled meats to roasted potatoes.
The cooking process is a joy, filling the kitchen with warmth and anticipation. Ultimately, it’s a comforting, healthy dish that brings people together, creating lasting memories around the table with every bite.
A true celebration of simple, quality ingredients. I hope you enjoy this delicious Greek String Beans In Tomato Sauce as much as I do!
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Greek String Beans In Tomato Sauce
Equipment
- Cutting board
- knife
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener (for tomatoes)
- Ladle (optional for serving)
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 28 oz can of San Marzano tomatoes e.g., Gustarosso
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Trim the green beans and cut them into 2-inch pieces.Chop the onion, garlic, parsley, and dill.
Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
- Stir in the San Marzano tomatoes (with juice), sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), dried oregano, and dried thyme.Add the water or vegetable broth and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Green Beans:
- Add the green beans to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated with the tomato sauce.Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Finishing Touches:
- Stir in the fresh parsley and dill just before serving to preserve their fresh flavors.
Serve:
- Serve the Greek string beans hot, garnished with extra fresh parsley and dill. Enjoy as a side dish or a light main course.