Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty side dish or even a light meal? Look no further! This recipe for green beans and potatoes is surprisingly simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or even a comforting Sunday lunch, this dish is a winner in our household, and we think it will become a favorite in yours too. It's one of those easy recipes that always impresses, and is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Wash the potatoes and green beans thoroughly. Halve or quarter the potatoes depending on their size, ensuring they are roughly the same size as the green beans for even cooking. Trim the ends off the green beans.
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Combine and Season: In a large bowl, combine the potatoes and green beans. Drizzle with olive oil and then sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated. This ensures consistent seasoning and cooking throughout the dish.
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Roast to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Don't overcrowd the pan; this will prevent even cooking and might lead to steaming instead of roasting.
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Bake: Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and slightly golden brown, and the green beans are bright green and tender-crisp. You can toss the vegetables halfway through for even browning.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the vegetables cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if using, and serve immediately. This delicious side dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish. It's also a hearty and satisfying vegetarian meal on its own.
Cooking Tips for the Best Green Beans and Potatoes:
- Use small potatoes: Smaller potatoes cook faster and more evenly.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the vegetables enough space to roast properly.
- Toss halfway through: This ensures even cooking and browning.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add other herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika.
Delicious Variations:
- Lemon Herb Green Beans and Potatoes: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.
- Spicy Green Beans and Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Garlic Lovers Delight: Increase the garlic powder to 1 ½ teaspoons or add some minced fresh garlic.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The nutritional content will vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients and portion size. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming four servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 4-5g
This green beans and potatoes recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!