greek string beans recipe
The Best greek string beans recipe
I’m so excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes that’s been passed down from my Greek grandmother – the classic string beans recipe. This dish is a staple in many Greek households, and for good reason. The combination of tender beans, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic spices is simply irresistible.
As a busy mom, I love that this recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. My kids devour it, and I’m sure your family will too. The key to making this recipe is to use high-quality ingredients, especially the beans.
I like to use fresh string beans from our local farmer’s market, as they have a sweeter and more delicate flavor than the canned variety. If you can’t find fresh string beans, don’t worry – frozen will do in a pinch. Just thaw them first and pat dry with paper towels before using.
Another crucial element of this recipe is the tomato sauce. You can use either homemade or store-bought sauce, but make sure it’s rich and flavorful. I like to add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
You can also add some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Now, let’s talk about the technique behind cooking these string beans. It’s all about achieving that perfect tender-crisp texture.
To do this, we’ll be sautéing the onions and garlic until softened, then adding in the beans and sauce. From there, we’ll let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the beans are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Greek String Beans (Fasolakia)
A classic Greek dish of tender green beans simmered in a rich tomato and olive oil sauce. This simple, flavorful vegetable stew is often served as a main course or side dish with crusty bread and feta cheese.
🥘Ingredients
For the Beans
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Greek String Beans (Fasolakia) Works
This Greek string beans recipe is one of my go to dishes for any occasion. It works just as well for a casual family dinner as it does for a holiday meal or a potluck. I love that I can make it ahead of time and it still tastes great. To store leftovers let the dish cool completely then put it in a container with a tight lid.
It will keep in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to eat it again you can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. The flavors actually get better after a day or two. For serving I like to offer this dish warm or at room temperature.
It goes well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it as a side with roasted lamb or meatballs. Sometimes I spoon it over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. Leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day.
This recipe is reliable and always a hit with my family and friends. It is a simple way to bring a taste of Greece to your table without any complicated steps.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Greek String Beans (Fasolakia)
Q: Can I use canned string beans instead of fresh?
No, it’s best to use fresh or frozen string beans for this recipe. Canned beans can be too soft and have an unpleasant texture.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Q: What type of tomato sauce should I use?
You can use either homemade or store-bought tomato sauce for this recipe. If using store-bought, look for a brand that’s low in sodium and made with high-quality ingredients.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
Q: How long does this recipe take to cook?
This recipe cooks quickly – about 20 minutes or until the beans are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Q: Can I reheat this recipe multiple times?
No, it’s best to reheat this recipe once for optimal flavor and texture.