Green Beans Mediterranean Style
A vibrant Mediterranean side dish featuring tender green beans, aromatic onions, peppers, and celery, cooked in olive oil for a flavorful and healthy vegetable complement.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the green beans, then trim and cut into 2-inch lengths.
- In a wide frying pan, cook the chopped onion in olive oil over high heat, stirring until the onion is soft but not brown.
- Add chopped green pepper and chopped celery; cook covered over moderate heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the prepared green beans and water to the vegetables; continue to cook covered over moderate heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant twist, consider adding cherry tomatoes or olives to enhance the Mediterranean flavor. If fresh green beans are unavailable, frozen ones work well too; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also bring a delightful heat to the dish. Remember to taste and adjust seasonings, especially if you choose to add ingredients like olives.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Mediterranean recipes like Baba Ghanoush or a refreshing Spinach Salad With Hearts Of Palm to create a colorful spread. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues or picnics, offering a healthy yet flavorful option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through for a quick option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans Mediterranean Style contains roughly 419 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 468mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender but not mushy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those following vegan recipes, and you can enhance the flavor with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added depth.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the onions. You can also serve the dish with a side of hot sauce or a drizzle of sriracha for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
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).