Green Beans Provencale
Green Beans Provencale is a vibrant side dish featuring fresh green beans cooked with tomatoes, green onions, and basil, offering a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired taste suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the green beans and drain.
- Trim the ends and cut the beans on a diagonal into 1-inch pieces.
- Combine all ingredients in a medium skillet.
- Cook, covered, over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes until the beans are crisp-tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh green beans and ensure they are bright green and firm. If you don't have dried basil, fresh basil can be used, just double the amount. If you're looking to reduce calories, consider substituting margarine with olive oil. You can also add minced garlic or a splash of lemon juice for an extra flavor boost. Experiment with different herbs to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Green Beans Provencale as a side dish to grilled meats or alongside dishes like Lemon Pasta Salad for a refreshing meal. They also pair wonderfully with Mediterranean recipes, adding a vibrant touch to your table. Consider garnishing with additional chopped green onions or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a flavorful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help steam them back to their crisp-tender state. Avoid microwaving as it may lead to a soggy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans Provencale contains roughly 46 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1822mg per serving (79% 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, but be aware that their texture may differ. If using frozen, add them directly to the skillet without thawing, and adjust the cooking time to ensure they heat through while still maintaining a crisp texture.
What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
You can enhance this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrients. Just chop them into similar sizes as the green beans and add them to the skillet with the other ingredients.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. You could also serve it with a spicy condiment or alongside a dish like Oriental Shish-Kabob Marinating Sauce for a flavorful contrast.
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).