Garlic beans

Delicious Garlic Green Beans Recipe - A Symphony of Flavors

Total preparation time: 50-60 minutes
Preparation time: 10-15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Garlic green beans are a traditional dish that brings an authentic taste and unmistakable aroma, making it an excellent choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. This simple and quick recipe, rich in nutrients, combines the crunchy texture of green beans with the strong flavor of garlic, creating a perfect side dish for any meal.

Ingredients:
- 900 g fresh yellow green beans
- 9 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 sprigs of fresh dill
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

Recipe Story
Green beans are wonderful summer vegetables, full of vitamins and minerals, that have been appreciated for centuries in various culinary cultures. They are often used to add a touch of freshness to any dish. Garlic, on the other hand, is a versatile ingredient that not only provides an intense flavor but also brings health benefits, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the yellow green beans well and trimming the ends. You can cut them into smaller pieces if you prefer. Grate the carrot and finely chop the onion. Crush the garlic cloves with a knife or a garlic press.

2. Heating the oil:
In a large pot or skillet, add the 4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you add the ingredients.

3. Sautéing the vegetables:
Add the grated carrot and chopped onion to the hot oil. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the 7 crushed garlic cloves and continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Adding the green beans:
Place the cleaned green beans in the pot and mix well to combine with the other ingredients. Let them sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Boiling:
Cover the green beans with about 2.5 cups of water, add salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover with a lid. Let it simmer over medium heat for 30-40 minutes. Check occasionally to see if the green beans are cooked, tender, and easily pierced with a fork.

6. Finishing the dish:
About 5 minutes before turning off the heat, crush the last two garlic cloves and add them to the pot along with the chopped parsley and dill. This step will intensify the garlic flavor and add a fresh taste to the dish. Let the dish simmer uncovered to allow the liquid to reduce.

7. Serving:
Garlic green beans can be served as is, as a side for meats or fish, or integrated into a grain bowl. You can also add some lemon slices for an extra touch of freshness!

Tips and Useful Advice
- If you want to enhance the flavor, you can also add a pinch of chili powder or a bunch of fresh basil.
- Green beans freeze very well, so you can prepare a larger quantity and store them for later.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with a salad of tomatoes and feta cheese for a healthy and delicious lunch.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of garlic green beans contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. This dish is rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, making it a good choice for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, but the cooking time will be slightly shorter.
- What else can I add to the recipe? You can experiment with diced carrots or red bell peppers to add more color and nutrients!
- Is this recipe vegan? Yes, it is perfect for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Variations
To add an interesting twist, you can try replacing yellow green beans with green beans or adding some cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste. You can also serve the green beans with a simple yogurt sauce flavored with lemon and dill for a delicious contrast.

I encourage you to experiment with this simple and delicious garlic green beans recipe. Every meal becomes a special occasion when cooked with love. Enjoy!