Beans A'La Brenda
Beans A'La Brenda offers tender green beans infused with garlic, onion, basil, and a touch of sugar, creating a flavorful side perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the green beans, trim the ends, and remove any strings.
- Cut the green beans in half crosswise.
- Saute the halved garlic and chopped onion in vegetable oil; remove and discard the garlic.
- Add the prepared beans, boiling water, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Cover and cook over medium heat for 25 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
- Add an additional tablespoon of water if necessary during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you don’t have dried basil, fresh basil can be used, adjusting the quantity to taste as it's often more potent. For a heartier dish, you could toss in some diced tomatoes or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Beans A'La Brenda pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or rice. Consider adding a side of cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a complete meal, serve with a fresh garden salad or a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent drying out, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be served cold as a refreshing salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans A'La Brenda contains roughly 155 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the skillet. They may cook a bit faster than fresh beans, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
If you prefer, you can substitute olive oil or coconut oil in place of vegetable oil. Each will impart a slightly different flavor and richness to the dish, so choose based on your preference or dietary needs.
How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
The beans are done when they are tender but still have a slight crunch. You can test them by tasting a piece; they should be vibrant green and not mushy. If they need more time, continue cooking and check every few minutes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).