Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful side dish to brighten up your dinner table? Look no further! This recipe for green beans and tomatoes is a delightful combination of fresh, garden-like flavors that's surprisingly easy to make. It's perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. This simple dish showcases the natural sweetness of green beans and the juicy burst of ripe tomatoes, creating a healthy and delicious meal addition that the whole family will love. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the Green Beans: Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim off the ends. Snap them into roughly 1-inch pieces. For a quicker cooking time, you can blanch them for 2-3 minutes in boiling water before proceeding.
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Sauté Garlic: 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, as this will impart a bitter taste.
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Add Green Beans and Tomatoes: Add the green beans and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp and the tomatoes have softened slightly and released their juices.
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Season and Simmer: Stir in the balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite protein and grains.
Cooking Tips for the Best Green Beans and Tomatoes:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked green beans will be mushy and lose their vibrant green color. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a significant difference in the taste of this dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Blanching Tip: Blanching the green beans beforehand helps them to retain their bright green color and cook more evenly.
Variations:
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Shallots: Substitute shallots for garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or yellow squash.
- Roasted Version: For a deeper flavor, roast the green beans and tomatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding the garlic and other seasonings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This easy recipe for green beans and tomatoes is a perfect example of healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. It's a simple yet satisfying side dish that's ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate meal. Enjoy!