Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This vibrant green beans and red peppers recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a light weekend lunch. It's packed with nutrients, bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to make – a true champion among easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 2-3 people and can easily be scaled up or down to fit your needs.
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Veggies: Wash and trim the green beans. Slice the red bell pepper into strips of roughly equal size to ensure even cooking. Mincing the garlic beforehand saves time during the cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; low to medium heat is key here.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables: Add the green beans and red bell peppers to the skillet. Season generously with oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the olive oil and seasonings.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the vegetables simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp and the red peppers are slightly softened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add a Zing: Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, stir in the lemon juice. This adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the sweetness of the peppers and the earthiness of the green beans.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish or a light and healthy main course.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of white wine to the skillet along with the garlic.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish for a richer flavor.
- Add protein: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. Simply cook your protein of choice separately and add it to the skillet with the vegetables during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Frozen green beans: If using frozen green beans, skip the simmering step and add them directly to the skillet with the peppers. They'll cook more quickly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 Fat: 8-10g Protein: 4-5g Carbohydrates: 15-20g Fiber: 4-5g
This green beans and red peppers recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and nutritious. It’s a perfect option for those seeking simple, healthy meals, and its versatility allows for endless customization. Enjoy!