Braised String Beans(Greek: Fassoulakia Yahni)
A flavorful Greek-style braised string beans dish featuring tomatoes, onion, and garlic, perfect for a hearty vegetarian meal or a side dish with Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste and chopped fresh tomato, then simmer until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add string beans, season with salt and pepper, and pour enough water to cover.
- Cook until the beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using a mix of green beans and yellow wax beans. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic. Fresh herbs like dill or oregano can be substituted for parsley to enhance the flavor profile. For a richer sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes instead of fresh ones.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the braised string beans warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with Greek Beans or Mediterranean-Style Roasted Vegetables for a balanced meal. For a complete spread, consider serving alongside crusty bread or a fresh Peasant Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the beans on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. This dish can also be enjoyed cold, making it a great addition to a lunchbox or as part of a Mediterranean meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Braised String Beans(Greek: Fassoulakia Yahni) contains roughly 213 calories, with 9g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 543mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
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 string beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen string beans, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster. Add them directly to the pot without thawing and monitor for tenderness closely.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Braised string beans hold up well and can be prepared in advance. Just cool completely before storing them, and they will taste great even after a few days in the fridge.
What can I serve with braised string beans?
These beans are versatile and can be served with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian spread. They also pair nicely with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
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).