Green Beans In Herb Sauce
Bright green beans coated in a savory herb sauce with onion and celery, perfect as a fresh side dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion, celery, and parsley flakes in margarine in a medium saucepan until the onion is golden.
- Mix garlic salt, salt, pepper, and cornstarch in a small bowl.
- Slowly stir in 1 cup water to the mixture to form a smooth paste.
- Add the mixture and green beans to the onions in the saucepan.
- Cover and gently cook for 10 minutes, or until the beans are tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme along with the parsley flakes. If you're out of cornstarch, flour can be a suitable substitute to thicken the sauce. To enhance the dish, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness. This dish can easily be made vegan by using plant-based margarine.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant green beans dish alongside grilled chicken or baked fish for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Cabbage Souffle Salad for a fresh contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving it over rice or quinoa. Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added flavor.
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 the pan to prevent the beans from drying out. You can gently reheat them on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans In Herb Sauce contains roughly 28 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1770mg per serving (77% 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 frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh green beans! Just trim the ends and cut them into your desired length. Fresh beans will require a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly, cooking until they are tender-crisp.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer, you can substitute margarine with olive oil or butter. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil or any plant-based butter would work well. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, so choose based on your preference.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the sauce. You can also sauté some chopped jalapeños along with the onions and celery for a fresh kick. Adjust to your preferred spice level for the best results.
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).