Italian Green Beans
Italian Green Beans is a flavorful side dish featuring tender green beans simmered in a savory tomato and chicken bouillon broth, accented with oregano. Perfect for those who enjoy hearty, vegetable-forward dishes with a Mediterranean flair, it pairs well with pasta, grilled meats, or seafood.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chicken bouillon, olive oil, and diced tomatoes in a pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add green beans, salt, pepper, and oregano to the pot.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove the cover and continue to cook over low heat until excess moisture evaporates and beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of bouillon. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can substitute for oregano if preferred. If you want more texture, add some sautéed onions or garlic to the mix. Make sure to trim the green beans properly for even cooking. This dish can also serve as a great side for Chicken Parmesan(Aunt Sue'S Recipe).
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Italian green beans alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. They pair excellently with pasta dishes like Pasta With Chicken, Steak And Shrimp or can be incorporated into a larger Italian feast. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top just before serving can add a delightful richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Green Beans contains roughly 317 calories, with 10g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (173% of the Daily Value), and calcium (140% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% 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 are a convenient alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster than fresh beans. Add them to the pot when the liquid is boiling, and simmer until heated through and tender.
What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
You can enhance this dish by adding sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even carrots. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes as the green beans to ensure even cooking. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your taste while maintaining the Italian flavor profile.
How do I know when the green beans are done cooking?
The green beans are done when they are tender but still have a slight crunch. You can test them by piercing with a fork. If they are easily pierced but not mushy, they are ready. Remember that they will continue to cook a bit after you remove them from heat.
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).