Green Beans with Tomato Sauce
User Reviews
5
Green Beans with Tomato Sauce
Description
This recipe combines crisp green beans with a flavorful tomato-based sauce that incorporates softened onions and garlic sautéed in olive oil as its foundation. The plum tomatoes provide a slightly chunky texture, simmered down to create a sauce that clings well to the beans. Optional red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overpowering the dish.
The green beans are briefly boiled until just tender, preserving some snap before being folded into the sauce to finish cooking and absorb flavor. Fresh basil and parsley added at the end contribute herbal brightness and a fresh aroma. Extra virgin olive oil is used both in cooking and as a finishing drizzle to add fruitiness and richness.
Served with grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese on the side, this preparation works well as a vegetable accompaniment to simple or hearty meals. The simmering technique ensures the beans are tender with infused flavor without becoming mushy, but the recipe allows for extended cooking if softer beans are preferred. Leftovers keep for a few days and can be reheated gently without losing texture.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds green beans stems removed
- 1 ounce can plum tomatoes hand crushed or blender pulsed
- 3/8 cup extra virgin olive oil divided
- 1 medium onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, crushed, hot
- 1/4 cup basil chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley minced
Instructions
- In a large pan over medium-low heat saute the onion in a ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil until translucent (about 3-5 minutes). Add in the garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes more until golden.
- Add the hot red pepper flakes (optional) and cook for 30 seconds more. Add the plum tomatoes and bring to a simmer over medium to medium-low heat.
- While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of water to boil with 2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Once boiling, add the green beans in and cook for 3 minutes.
- Strain the green beans and add them to the sauce. Continue to cook for 5-10 minutes longer letting the sauce further reduce and stick to the green beans.
- Taste test and adjust salt to desired taste. Once satisfied with the taste and the texture of the beans, turn off the heat and finish with the fresh basil and parsley along with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve with grated Pecorino Romano or parmesan on the side. Enjoy!
Notes
- This recipe serves 4 large or 6 moderate portions.
- Simmer longer for softer green beans; add water if sauce becomes too dry to prevent burning.
- Store leftovers for up to 3 days; reheat on stovetop or microwave before serving.
- Grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan adds a salty finish when served alongside.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 260 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 260kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 22.3g | 7% |
| Protein | 5.5g | 11% |
| Fat | 19.5g | 30% |
| Saturated Fat | 2.8g | 14% |
| Sodium | 617mg | 26% |
| Potassium | 760mg | 16% |
| Fiber | 8g | 32% |
| Sugar | 10.3g | 21% |
| Calcium | 89mg | 9% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.