Green Beans With Basil
Fresh green beans are cooked to crisp-tender perfection with aromatic herbs and vegetables, creating a vibrant side dish ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place green beans and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil; cook, uncovered, for 7 minutes or until crisp-tender.
- Drain the green beans.
- Add butter, chopped onion, chopped celery, minced garlic, minced fresh rosemary, and minced fresh basil.
- Cover and cook for 4 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose fresh green beans that are bright green and crisp. If you want a more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar at the end. You can substitute the butter with olive oil for a healthier option, and dried herbs can be used if fresh ones are unavailable. This recipe is a great side dish for grilled meats or pairs well with Yummy Apple Sticks for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
These green beans make a delightful side for roasted chicken or fish. They can also be served alongside a hearty grain dish like quinoa or brown rice. For a complete meal, consider pairing with Vegetable Melts to complement the freshness of the beans, creating a satisfying vegetarian spread.
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 medium heat with a little olive oil or butter to retain their flavor and texture. Avoid microwaving for best results, as it can make the beans mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans With Basil contains roughly 310 calories, with 7g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (83% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the green beans and sauté the vegetables in advance. Store them separately and combine just before serving. This way, you maintain the crispness of the beans while having everything ready to heat and serve.
What can I substitute for the rosemary?
If you don't have rosemary, thyme or oregano can be good substitutes. Each will bring a different flavor profile, so adjust according to your taste. Fresh or dried versions of these herbs work well, but use less dried as it's more concentrated.
Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using margarine or olive oil instead of butter. Additionally, ensure that you are using vegetable broth instead of water for added depth of flavor if desired.
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).