Italian Beans (Fagioletti)
Italian Beans, or Fagioletti, is a vibrant dish showcasing the fresh flavors of Italian green beans, enhanced by the sweetness of red onion and the rich depth of tomato paste. Perfect as a side dish or a light main, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Oil a pan and add the sliced onion, garlic, and green beans.
- Dissolve the tomato paste in water and add the oregano, basil, and a dash of sugar. Pour the mixture over the beans and cook for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or substituting the green beans with haricots verts. If you're short on time, use canned beans instead; just reduce the cooking time. Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried ones if necessary, but remember to adjust the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Italian Beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. They also pair beautifully with Italian Potato Salad for a refreshing meal. For a vegetarian option, pair them with crusty bread and a simple salad. Consider serving with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. This dish can also be enjoyed cold, making it a great addition to salads or as a side for picnics.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Beans (Fagioletti) contains roughly 527 calories, with 18g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (264% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 74g 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 use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. For this recipe, you would need about 4-5 medium tomatoes, diced. Cook them down with the onions and garlic until they break down into a sauce-like consistency. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are well integrated with the beans.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those following vegan recipes, providing a hearty and nutritious dish that's full of flavor and color. Enjoy it as a main or side dish in a plant-based meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just follow the recipe and store it in an airtight container once cooled. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove and enjoy!
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).