Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavor? Look no further! This simple recipe for green beans and carrots is the perfect solution. It's a healthy, delicious side that's ready in minutes, making it an ideal addition to any weeknight dinner or a delightful accompaniment to a holiday feast. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. This recipe is perfect for those searching for healthy meals, easy recipes, quick dinner ideas and the best recipes for homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 pound fresh carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by washing your green beans and carrots thoroughly. Trim the ends of the green beans and peel the carrots. Chop the carrots into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. This ensures a delicious dish with perfectly tender-crisp vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the carrots to the pan and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften slightly.
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
Add the green beans to the pan along with the carrots. Continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender-crisp and the carrots are cooked through. Don't overcook; you want to retain their vibrant color and slight crunch.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Season the vegetables with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Stir well to combine and cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Green Beans and Carrots:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked green beans and carrots become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables that retain their vibrant color and a slight bite.
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh, high-quality vegetables will significantly impact the taste and texture of your dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Delicious Variations:
- Roasted Green Beans and Carrots: For a different texture, roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- Garlic and Herb Green Beans and Carrots: Add minced fresh garlic, rosemary, or thyme during the sautéing process for a more fragrant and flavorful dish.
- Glazed Green Beans and Carrots: Stir in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup during the last few minutes of cooking for a touch of sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-18 grams
- Fiber: 3-4 grams
This simple recipe for green beans and carrots offers a healthy and delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!