Beans with tomatoes and meatballs

Green Beans with Tomatoes and Meatballs: A Delicious Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Welcome to the world of flavors and delicious dishes! Today, I invite you to a meal full of taste, where green beans perfectly intertwine with tomatoes and juicy meatballs. This recipe is not only simple but also packed with nutrients, providing you with a balanced and tasty meal. Moreover, it is a perfect opportunity to gather family or friends around the table, enjoying unforgettable moments.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the green beans with tomatoes:
- 400 g green beans
- 1 can of tomatoes (about 400 g)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 green onions
- 1 small stalk of celery
- ½ bell pepper (optional)
- Fresh dill (1 teaspoon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of thick tomato paste
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish

For the meatballs:
- 300 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix)
- 1 egg
- A handful of breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill (1 teaspoon)
- Dried thyme (optional)
- 2 cloves of garlic

A Brief History

Today's dish is inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize fresh ingredients and simple yet flavorful combinations. Green beans have been cultivated throughout history, appreciated for their crunchy texture and nutritional value. Meatballs, on the other hand, have become a staple in many cuisines, with endless variations that pair wonderfully with various vegetables.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Green Beans

The first step in this recipe is selecting the green beans. Make sure they are fresh, vibrant in color, and free of blemishes. Break them into 3-4 cm pieces. Blanch them in salted water for 5-7 minutes, then let them drain and cool for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps preserve the color and texture of the beans.

2. Preparing the Sauce

In a deep pan, heat a little oil. Finely chop the green onions, celery, and, if you have it, the bell pepper. Sauté them over medium heat until they become translucent and soft, but do not fry them. Add the tomato paste, bay leaves, and mix well. Then, add the blanched green beans and enough water from the blanching to cover them well. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes.

3. Preparing the Meatballs

Meanwhile, you can prepare the meatballs. In a bowl, combine the minced meat with the egg, breadcrumbs, fresh dill, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Form small meatballs, about 2-3 cm in size, which will cook evenly.

4. Finalizing the Dish

After the green beans have softened, add the crushed canned tomatoes and the crushed garlic. Let the sauce simmer for another 30 minutes. If you want to thicken the sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in a bit of cold water.

5. Cooking the Meatballs

Once the sauce is ready, place the meatballs on top of the green beans. Add a little warm water so that they are always covered with liquid. Cover with a lid and let it cook on low heat for 30 minutes.

6. Serving

Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish and turn off the heat. Let it sit covered for 15 minutes to cool slightly and blend the flavors. Serve the dish warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or creamy polenta.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Ingredients: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables or your favorite greens. A good idea would be to try with carrots or zucchini.
- Vegetarian Option: You can replace the meat in the meatballs with chopped mushrooms or a mixture of chickpeas and vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Color and Texture: Make sure the green beans are not overcooked to maintain their crunchy texture.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or mint tea for a complete culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use chicken or turkey meat, and for a vegan option, you can try a recipe with tofu or legumes.

Is this recipe suitable for those on a diet?
Yes, green beans are high in fiber, and the meatballs can be made from lean meat, making it a healthy choice.

How can I store leftovers?
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days or frozen for later enjoyment.

What side dish pairs best with this recipe?
A fresh vegetable salad or creamy polenta are excellent side dishes that complement this dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all I have left to say is enjoy your meal! Today's dish is not just a meal but a true culinary experience that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't forget to share this recipe with those who appreciate good food!