Greek-Style String Beans
A flavorful Greek-style green bean dish simmered in tomato and onion, perfect as a side or vegetarian main, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the green beans, oil, salt, pepper, and minced onion in a large skillet.
- Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the whole tomatoes in puree to the skillet.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Simmer until the green beans are tender and the flavors meld, about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh green beans and adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the sugar to 3 tablespoons. You can substitute fresh tomatoes for the canned ones; just blend them to achieve a similar puree consistency. For a twist, add some minced garlic or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat.
Serving Suggestions
These Greek-Style String Beans are perfect as a side dish to grilled meats or served over rice. For a full Mediterranean meal, pair them with Tomato Salad With Basil or Chickpea Tahini-Hummus *. They also work well with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A glass of Hot Mulled Wine complements the meal beautifully during cooler months.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the string beans in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them for a quick option, covering loosely to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek-Style String Beans contains roughly 1081 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (102% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1792mg per serving (78% 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 green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just thaw them beforehand and reduce the cooking time slightly, as they are often blanched before freezing and may cook faster than fresh beans. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t become mushy.
What can I serve with Greek-Style String Beans?
These beans pair well with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside Mediterranean recipes like stuffed peppers or quinoa salad. They also make a great addition to a mezze platter, complementing other dishes beautifully.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onion. A splash of hot sauce at the end can also enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a personalized touch.
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).