Green beans with garlic

Green beans with garlic: a savory and healthy side dish

If you're looking for a simple, quick, and delicious recipe, green beans with garlic is the perfect choice. This recipe not only brings a touch of freshness to your table but is also an excellent way to add essential nutrients to your diet. Green beans are packed with vitamins and minerals, recognized for their health benefits. Additionally, the combination with garlic not only enhances the flavor but also adds a hint of Mediterranean aroma. Let's discover together how we can prepare this delight!

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh green beans
- 1 head of garlic
- A few sprigs of herbs (parsley, dill, or basil)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of vinegar (preferably balsamic or apple cider)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper

Preparing green beans with garlic:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by cleaning the green beans. Rinse the pods well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Trim the ends of the pods and, if they are very long, cut them in half or into smaller pieces. This will not only facilitate cooking but also make portioning easier later.

2. Boiling the beans: In a large pot, add one liter of water and bring it to a boil. You can also opt for a steamer, which preserves more nutrients in the beans. Once the water starts to boil, add the beans. Cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender but still crisp. Be careful not to overboil them, as they will lose their pleasant texture.

3. Preparing the dressing: While the beans are cooking, we can prepare a delicious garlic dressing. Peel the head of garlic and finely chop the cloves. I recommend using a sharp knife to achieve a fine paste. This will release all the flavors and intensify the taste of the dish.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped garlic with the olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Add a little bit of the cooking water from the beans to slightly dilute the dressing and give it a more fluid texture. Mix well with a small whisk or a fork until the ingredients are well incorporated.

5. Combining: Once the beans are boiled, drain them well and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the garlic dressing over the beans and gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring each pod is evenly coated.

6. Garnishing: Chop some fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or basil) and sprinkle them over the dish. The herbs not only enhance the dish's appearance but also add a fresh aroma that perfectly complements the garlic flavor.

7. Serving: Green beans with garlic can be served warm or at room temperature. It is an excellent side dish for any type of meat, whether chicken, pork, or fish. It also pairs very well with cheeses, bringing a pleasant contrast between salty and fresh flavors.

Practical tips:

- Choose fresh beans: Buy green beans with firm and crisp pods. The pods should be a vibrant green, indicating freshness.
- Diet version: If you want to reduce the oil, you can use an oil spray or replace part of the oil with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Garlic flavor: If you prefer a milder garlic taste, you can let it sit in the olive oil for a few minutes before adding it to the dressing.
- Delicious combinations: You can add some cherry tomato slices or black olives for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Green beans are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, making them a filling food low in calories (about 31 calories per 100g). Garlic, on the other hand, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen beans? Yes, you can use frozen green beans; just make sure to boil them according to the instructions on the package.
2. How can I store leftovers? Keep the green beans with garlic in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can last up to 3 days.
3. Can it be served at parties? Absolutely! Green beans with garlic are a perfect appetizer for parties, being easy to prepare and serve.

Combination recipes:

For a complete meal, you can combine green beans with garlic with:

- Grilled chicken breast with lemon
- Pork steak with mustard sauce
- Feta cheese and tomato salad

Try this green beans with garlic recipe at your next meal, and you'll be amazed at how simple and tasty a healthy dish can be! Enjoy your meal!