Low-Cal Green Beans
A light, flavorful side featuring tender green beans infused with savory beef broth, perfect for health-conscious meals or as a simple vegetable accompaniment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the beef bouillon cube in 1/2 cup boiling water in a saucepan.
- Add the frozen green beans to the saucepan and heat to boiling.
- Cover the saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes or until the beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of water for dissolving the bouillon cube. Fresh green beans can also be used if available; just adjust cooking time accordingly. If you're looking for a bit of zest, a splash of lemon juice or your favorite spices can enhance the dish. This recipe can be adapted for vegan recipes by using a plant-based bouillon cube.
Serving Suggestions
These low-cal green beans make a great side dish for grilled meats or can be served alongside a light salad like Imperial Salad(Recipe From Old Virginia). For a complete meal, pair them with quinoa or brown rice. They also complement dishes like Hot Vinaigrette Vegetable for a nutritious and colorful plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the green beans in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Cover and warm until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Cal Green Beans contains roughly 32 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g 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 green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans! Just trim the ends and blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes before adding them to the bouillon mixture. This will help them cook evenly and maintain their vibrant color.
What can I do if I don't have a beef bouillon cube?
If you don't have a beef bouillon cube, you can substitute it with a vegetable bouillon cube or even a homemade broth for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that it complements the green beans well.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the green beans to the saucepan. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick.
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).