Green Beans With Fresh Tomato Sauce
Bright green beans paired with fresh tomato sauce and aromatic herbs create a flavorful, healthy side perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped green pepper and chopped onion in butter until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add peeled and chopped tomato, oregano, and salt to the pan.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Add cooked green beans to the sauce.
- Stir and cook just enough to heat thoroughly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute. Adjust the salt based on your preference or dietary needs. This dish is also great with a handful of fresh basil or parsley stirred in at the end for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the green beans with fresh tomato sauce as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Jean's Eggplant Casserole or a simple quinoa salad. For a heartier option, consider serving it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the green beans and sauce in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as part of a salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans With Fresh Tomato Sauce contains roughly 102 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (53% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1793mg 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, frozen green beans can be used in this recipe. Simply cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the sauce. This will save time and still provide a tasty dish.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
You can substitute olive oil or a plant-based butter to make this dish dairy-free. Both options will still provide a rich flavor that complements the vegetables nicely.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make this dish more filling, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein and fiber. This will turn it into a satisfying vegetarian main course, perfect for a light dinner.
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).