Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's both healthy and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This recipe for green beans and new potatoes is the perfect accompaniment to any main course, whether it's a grilled chicken breast, a juicy steak, or a hearty vegetarian casserole. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is a testament to how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb new potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the new potatoes thoroughly and halve or quarter them, depending on their size. Trim the ends off the green beans. Preparing the vegetables beforehand makes the cooking process much smoother.
Step 2: Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and green beans with olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated.
Step 3: Baking the Delight
Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roasting them in a single layer ensures even cooking and beautiful browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the green beans are bright green and slightly tender-crisp. You can check for doneness by easily piercing a potato with a fork.
Step 4: Add a Zesty Touch (Optional)
Once the vegetables are cooked, remove them from the oven and stir in the lemon juice (if using). This adds a fresh, bright flavor that complements the earthy tones of the potatoes and beans.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed warm, but it's also delicious at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Green Beans and New Potatoes:
- Use small to medium-sized new potatoes: These cook more quickly and evenly.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the vegetables are in a single layer for optimal browning and even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or garlic powder depending on your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or onions.
Variations:
- Herby twist: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or a mix of Italian herbs.
- Garlic lovers: Add a few cloves of minced fresh garlic to the vegetables before roasting for an extra punch of flavor.
- Lemon & Herb Butter: Melt some butter with lemon zest and your favorite herbs before tossing with the cooked vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. It’s always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 3-5g
- Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
This simple recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious and healthy side dish on the table quickly. It’s a versatile recipe that caters to both quick dinner ideas and more elaborate meals, making it a staple in any home cook's repertoire. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one proves that point perfectly!