Green Beans in Tomato Sauce is a classic Mediterranean dish that features crisp green beans simmered gently in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce. This dish combines the freshness of green vegetables with the robust flavors of tomatoes and herbs, making it both nutritious and heartwarming. It’s a versatile side that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, including grilled meats, fish, or simply served as part of a vegetarian feast. The sauce, infused with olive oil, garlic, and a hint of basil, cooks down to become wonderfully thick and flavorful, enveloping the green beans in a savory embrace that enhances their natural sweetness and snap.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or a few fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Directions:
- Prep the Green Beans:
- Wash the green beans and trim off the ends. If the beans are particularly long, you can cut them in half for easier eating.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Tomatoes:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, dried or fresh basil, and if using, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the Green Beans:
- Add the green beans to the sauce, stirring to coat them thoroughly. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the beans simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender to your liking.
- Season and Serve:
- Once the green beans are cooked, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Let the dish sit for a few minutes off the heat to allow the flavors to meld together more fully.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Serve the green beans warm, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
Green Beans in Tomato Sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of Mediterranean flair to your table. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a hearty vegetable side dish and can be easily adapted to include other herbs or spices. Whether as part of a festive meal or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy with its delightful combination of textures and flavors.
