French Beans
A quick and flavorful side dish featuring tender French-style green beans tossed in buttery, slightly sweet ketchup glaze, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy saucepan.
- Add finely chopped onion and saute until golden.
- Add catsup and drained French beans.
- Toss to coat and heat over low heat until warmed through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or a splash of vinegar to the beans. If you're out of catsup, a mix of tomato paste and a bit of sugar can serve as an effective substitute. You can also experiment with different types of beans like green peas or wax beans for variation. This dish is part of American recipes, so feel free to get creative with additional spices.
Serving Suggestions
These French beans make a great side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a more substantial meal, pair them with Peanut Butter Bread Sticks for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. They also complement a fresh salad or can be served as part of a larger spread featuring dishes like Broccoli Cheese Sauce or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Beans contains roughly 254 calories, with 2g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1123mg per serving (49% 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 fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh green beans, trim and blanch them for about 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp before adding them to the recipe. This will enhance the flavor and texture significantly compared to canned beans.
Is there a way to make this dish spicy?
Yes! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the onions. This will give the dish a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
What can I serve this dish with for a complete meal?
For a complete meal, consider serving these beans alongside roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. They also go well with a quinoa salad or a hearty grain dish, making it a versatile addition to any dinner table.
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).