Tomato Green Beans
A vibrant and flavorful green bean dish with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and lemon pepper, perfect for a light lunch or side dish that appeals to vegetable lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Snap off the ends of the green beans and steam them in salted water until done, about 20 minutes.
- Heat butter in a skillet; stir in basil, lemon pepper, and crushed garlic.
- Add peeled and chopped tomatoes, turning lightly to coat with the butter mixture to release a little juice.
- Mix the steamed green beans with the tomato mixture and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider using fresh tomatoes in season for this dish. If you don't have fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes can be a good substitute. You can also enhance the garlic flavor by adding a pinch of garlic powder along with the crushed garlic. For a twist, try adding some cooked bacon or pancetta for a savory element.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also complements Mediterranean recipes, making it a great side for a Greek salad or alongside Pasta With Broccoli And Garbanzo Beans. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Green Beans contains roughly 485 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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 as a convenient substitute. Just steam them according to package instructions before mixing with the tomato mixture. They will save you time while still offering a delicious result.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. This will maintain the richness of the dish while accommodating dietary preferences.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño into the garlic mixture. You can also serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce on top 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).