Green beans with tomatoes

Green Beans with Tomatoes - A Simple and Delicious Dish

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Green beans with tomatoes is a delicious dish, perfect for fasting days as well as a side dish alongside a juicy steak. This simple recipe is full of flavor and health, making it an excellent choice for those who want to add a touch of freshness to their table.

A bit of history
Dishes with beans have been prepared throughout history, being an important source of protein and nutrients. This recipe brings together crispy green beans and juicy tomatoes, two ingredients that complement each other perfectly, creating a symphony of flavors and textures.

Necessary ingredients
- 500 g fresh green beans
- 5-6 large ripe tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill or basil), to preference
- 2-3 cups vegetable broth (or water, if preferred)

Preparing the ingredients
1. Green beans: Start by breaking the ends off the beans, and if the pods are larger, you can cut them into 4-5 cm pieces. Wash them well under cold running water to remove impurities.
2. Tomatoes: To remove the skin, you can blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then plunge them into cold water. The skin will come off easily. Cut them into medium-sized cubes.
3. Garlic: Peel the two cloves of garlic and mince them finely or leave them whole, depending on your preference.

Cooking
1. In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the garlic and let it color slightly to release its aroma. It is important not to let it burn, as this will give the dish a bitter taste.
2. After the garlic has browned, remove it from the pot. Add the green beans and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they become slightly softer.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and 2-3 cups of vegetable broth. Mix well and bring to a boil. Cover the pot and let it simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. After about 15-20 minutes, taste the beans. They should be juicy but not fully cooked. Adjust with salt and pepper according to your preferences. If you want a dish with more sauce, you can add additional vegetable broth.
5. When the beans are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and add the chopped herbs. This will add extra freshness and flavor.

Serving
This green bean dish with tomatoes can be served warm or at room temperature. It is delicious alongside chicken or pork steak, but can also be enjoyed as a main dish during fasting days. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top and add a slice of lemon on the plate for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips
- Green beans: Choose fresh beans with firm and crispy pods. Check that they are not wilted or dry.
- Tomatoes: Make sure they are ripe and juicy, as they will influence the final flavor of the dish.
- Herbs: Experiment with different types of herbs! Basil adds a Mediterranean flavor, while dill gives a fresher taste.

Possible variations
- Add a few slices of bell pepper for extra color and texture.
- Use sautéed garlic, but also a bit of hot pepper for a spicy kick.
- If you want a heartier version, you can add some diced potatoes, which can be boiled together with the beans.

Frequently asked questions
- How can I keep fresh green beans? It is recommended to store them in the fridge, in perforated plastic bags, to allow air circulation.
- Can the dish be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the dish, but it is best consumed fresh to enjoy the texture and flavor.
- What other side dishes can accompany this dish? Rice or mashed potatoes are excellent choices to complete the meal.

Green beans with tomatoes is not just a simple recipe, but also a wonderful way to bring a healthy dish full of colors and flavors to your table. Try it and enjoy every bite!