This Italian green bean recipe is incredibly simple to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. The fresh green beans do not need pre-boiling. They are stir-fried and then gently steamed in tomato sauce, resulting in a perfect side dish that is firm, crunchy, and carries a nutty flavor. It's a simple side dish that pairs wonderfully with beef, pork, chicken, or lamb roasts, making it versatile for any time of year.
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This Italian green bean recipe is incredibly simple to make and requires just a few simple ingredients.
The fresh green beans do not need pre-boiling.
They are stir-fried and then gently steamed in tomato sauce, resulting in a perfect side dish that is firm, crunchy, and carries a nutty flavor.
It's a simple side dish that pairs wonderfully with beef, pork, chicken, or lamb roasts, making it versatile for any time of year.
In Italian cuisine, the freshness of vegetables is paramount and this recipe brings the essence of Italian style right to your dinner table.
The concept of "cucina povera," or "poor kitchen," is a testament to how Italians can create a full meal out of simple ingredients.
This dish is a delicious way to showcase that philosophy.
It is a flavorful side dish that's not only easy to make but also rich in taste, embodying the essence of Italian recipes.
What's more, this dish is ideal for a quick weeknight meal.
It's low-carb, so if you're looking to skip the pasta but still crave something hearty and Italian-style, this green bean casserole is a great option.
The beauty of this delicious side dish recipe is that it can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for dinner parties or any occasion where you like to prepare in advance.
So, whether you're on the Italian Riviera or just looking to bring a touch of it to your kitchen, this easy Italian green beans dish is a delicious and flavorful addition to your cooking repertoire.
For more easy Italian side dishes recipes you can check: Italian sauteed spinach, Italian vegetable stew, Baked ratatouille, Roasted Butternut Squash, Easy Chanterelle Mushrooms, broad beans minestra.
Ingredients
Here are the simple ingredients you'll need for this dish.
- Fresh Green Beans: The star of the dish, they provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. You can also use all varieties like flat Italian green beans also called Romano beans, or French green beans. Avoid using canned beans as they are already cooked. If you cannot find any fresh green beans you can look for them in the frozen section of the grocery stores. Frozen green beans are a better substitute but make sure they are not pre-boiled
- Tomato Sauce or Fresh Tomatoes: Adds a rich, tangy base to the dish. Fresh tomatoes, especially grape tomatoes, can be used for a more vibrant flavor. The beans are steamed in their juices
- Fresh Garlic: Infuses the dish with a pungent aroma and flavor that complements the green beans and tomato sauce.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the fresh beans and other ingredients.
- Optional Nduja: This spicy spreadable salami from Calabria can be used as a cooking fat to add a kick to the dish. If unavailable, red pepper flakes are a good substitute.
- Fresh Herbs: Topping the dish with fresh herbs like fresh parsley or basil adds an aromatic finish and a pop of color.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Can be used for sautéing the fresh garlic and snap beans, adding a layer of richness to the dish.
By using fresh ingredients and avoiding canned options, this dish stays true to the essence of Italian cooking.
Whether you use regular string beans or flat beans, the key is to keep them fresh for the most delicious and flavorful side dish.
Equipment
The equipment needed are very simple:
- Vegetable Washer: To ensure the green beans are clean and free from dirt.
- Cutting Board: For chopping the beans and any fresh herbs or other ingredients.
- Knife: To trim the green beans and chop any additional ingredients.
- Large and deep skillet with lid: For stir-frying and steaming the green beans in the tomato sauce.
- Wooden Spoons: Useful for stirring the ingredients while cooking.
Instructions
- Remove the ends of the green beans and cut them into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces for bite-sized portions.
- Rinse them thoroughly using a vegetable washer.
- In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 sliced garlic cloves and stir-fry until fragrant.
- For added spice, add a tablespoon of Nduja to the skillet. If you don't have Nduja, you can use red chili peppers as a substitute. (Optional)
- Add the green beans to the skillet.
- Stir-fry them until they take on a bright green color and get some caramelization.
- Carefully add the tomato sauce to the skillet, being cautious as the hot oil may splatter.
- Add salt to the skillet and stir until well combined with the green beans and tomato sauce.
- Lower the heat and let the green beans simmer covered with a lid for about 20 minutes. This is the main cooking time where the flavors meld together.
- During the cooking process, stir the green beans occasionally. Make sure there's enough steam being produced by the tomato sauce to keep the beans moist.
- Check the green beans for doneness. They are ready to be served when they are fork-tender.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian green beans and tomato dish is a great way to elevate any meal. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from pork tenderloin to Italian meatloaf.
If you're looking for a low-carb or low-calorie option, this green bean recipe fits the bill perfectly.
For a rustic touch, consider serving it with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make excellent garnishes, adding both color and flavor to the dish.
These herbs are readily available in most grocery stores and can really make a difference in presentation.
If you're not planning to serve the green beans immediately, they can be stored in an airtight container and reheated later.
They're just as delicious at room temperature, making them a great recipe for dinner parties or gatherings where you need to prepare dishes in advance.
Whether you're serving it as a side or making it the star of a vegan or low-carb meal, these Italian-style green beans are sure to impress.
Storage and Reheating
Storing leftovers of this Italian green beans and tomatoes dish is simple and convenient.
Place any remaining portions in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
This makes it a great recipe for meal prep or for those days when you need a quick and delicious side dish.
When it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options.
The stovetop method is the most recommended for retaining the dish's texture and flavor.
Simply transfer the leftovers to a skillet and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the beans are warmed through and the tomato sauce is bubbling.
Alternatively, you can use a microwave.
Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power, checking every 30 seconds until the dish reaches your desired temperature.
Keep in mind that microwave reheating may result in slightly softer beans.
Either way, this dish is just as delicious reheated, making it a practical and convenient choice for busy schedules.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- Overcooking the Green Beans: One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the green beans, which results in a mushy texture. To avoid this, keep an eye on the cooking time and test for fork-tenderness to ensure they still have a bit of crunch.
- Using Canned Beans: While it may be tempting to use canned green beans for convenience, they often lack the fresh flavor and texture that this dish requires. Always opt for fresh beans for the best results.
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too many green beans to the skillet at once can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there's enough room for the beans to be spread out in a single layer in the skillet.
- Too Much or Too Little Salt: Seasoning is key in this simple dish. Be cautious when adding salt, especially if your tomato sauce is already salted. It's always better to start with less and add more to taste.
- Ignoring the Tomato Sauce: The quality of the tomato sauce can make or break this dish. Avoid using low-quality or overly processed sauces. If possible, use homemade tomato sauce or a high-quality store-bought option like Mutti.
- Skipping the Stir: During the simmering process, it's important to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent the tomato sauce from sticking to the skillet.
- Rushing the Cooking Process: This dish benefits from a slow simmer, which allows the flavors to meld together. Don't rush this step; let the dish simmer for the full recommended time for the most flavorful results.
- Cooking at Too High Temperature: Using high heat can quickly evaporate all the juices and result in burnt green beans. This not only ruins the texture but also the flavor of the dish. Always cook at a medium heat and lower it for simmering to maintain the dish's juiciness and prevent burning.
By adding this to your list of things to watch out for, you'll be well on your way to perfecting this dish.
Pairs well with
Other Italian Side dishes
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Easy Authentic Italian Green Beans Tomatoes Recipe
Ingredients (Commissions Earned)
- 1 lb green beans flat Italian green beans, Romano beans, or French green beans
- 2 peeled garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon nduja sausage optional, substitute with red pepper flakes if you want it spicy
- 1 cup homemade tomato sauce or tomato sauce Mutti
- salt & pepper
Equipment (Commissions Earned)
Instructions
- Remove the ends of the green beans and cut them into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces for bite-sized portions.1 lb green beans
- Rinse them thoroughly using a vegetable washer.
- In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 sliced garlic cloves and stir-fry until fragrant.2 peeled garlic cloves, 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- For added spice, add a tablespoon of Nduja to the skillet. If you don't have Nduja, you can use red chili peppers as a substitute. (Optional)1 tablespoon nduja sausage
- Add the green beans to the skillet. Stir-fry them until they take on a bright green color and get some caramelization.
- Carefully add the tomato sauce to the skillet, being cautious as the hot oil may splatter.1 cup homemade tomato sauce, salt & pepper
- Add salt to the skillet and stir until well combined with the green beans and tomato sauce.
- Lower the heat and let the green beans simmer covered with a lid for about 20 minutes. This is the main cooking time where the flavors meld together.
- During the cooking process, stir the green beans occasionally. Make sure there's enough steam being produced by the tomato sauce to keep the beans moist.
- Check the green beans for doneness. They are ready to be served when they are fork-tender.
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Nutrition
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