Green beans with garlic and yogurt sauce

Green beans with garlic and yogurt sauce – a simple recipe with a unique taste, perfect to be served alongside any steak. This dish is not only delicious but also very healthy, being rich in vitamins and nutrients. Let’s discover together how you can prepare this special dish, step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 kg green beans (or yellow)
- 1 large onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 400 ml creamy yogurt (preferably Greek)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Water

Preparation:

1. Preparing the green beans:
Start by cleaning the green beans, cutting off the ends. Then, wash them well under cold running water. Break the beans in half to make them easier to eat. This step will not only make the beans easier to serve but will also provide a more pleasant texture.

2. Boiling the beans:
Put the green beans in a pot of boiling water and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil the beans for about 8-10 minutes until they become slightly crunchy but not too soft. It’s important not to overcook them to preserve their vibrant color and nutrients.

3. Preparing the garlic sauce:
Meanwhile, prepare the garlic sauce. Peel the garlic cloves and crush them with a pinch of salt using a mortar or food processor. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and mix well to obtain a smooth paste. Then, incorporate the yogurt and half of the finely chopped dill. Mix everything until you get a creamy and flavorful sauce. This garlic and yogurt sauce is an excellent choice not only for green beans but also for other vegetables or meat dishes.

4. Caramelizing the onion:
In a pan, add two tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Peel and slice the onion thinly. Add the onion to the pan and sauté, stirring continuously to avoid burning. When the onion becomes translucent, sprinkle a teaspoon of brown sugar over it. This step will add a pleasant sweetness and help caramelize the onion. Continue to stir until the sugar completely melts and the onion takes on a golden hue. Finally, turn off the heat with a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar, adding a bit of pepper and salt to enhance the flavors.

5. Assembling the dish:
When the beans are boiled, drain them well and mix them with the caramelized onion. Add the remaining chopped dill for an extra freshness to the dish. This combination of flavors will transform a simple ingredient into a true feast.

6. Serving:
Serve the green beans warm or cold, alongside the garlic and yogurt sauce. This recipe can be used as a side dish for any steak, but it is just as delicious eaten on its own, cold from the fridge. Give it an appealing look by sprinkling a few dill sprigs on top before serving.

Useful tips:

- Vegetarian option: You can also add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to diversify the recipe.
- Tip for an even more intense flavor: You can add a few drops of lemon juice to the garlic sauce for a fresher taste.
- International flavors: If you want to give it a Mediterranean twist, add olives or feta cheese to the bean mixture.
- Storing the sauce: The garlic and yogurt sauce can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

One serving of this recipe contains approximately 150 calories, and green beans are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and manganese. Regular consumption of green beans can help maintain digestive health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Frequently asked questions:

- What type of beans can I use? You can use both green and yellow beans. Both are equally delicious!
- Can I use lactose-free yogurt? Yes, if you are lactose intolerant, lactose-free yogurt is an excellent alternative.
- Is this recipe good for a diet? Yes, it is a healthy option, rich in nutrients and low in calories, ideal for a balanced diet.

This green beans recipe with garlic and yogurt sauce is not only simple and quick but also extremely tasty and nutritious. Try it and add it to your weekly menu! It will surely become a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy your meal!