Beans with olives

Beans with olives – A delicious and nutritious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Beans with olives is a traditional recipe, full of flavor, that combines the creamy texture of beans with the salty and slightly bitter taste of olives. It is a versatile dish, perfect for fasting days, but also as a savory side dish alongside roasts or schnitzels. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious, providing an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins.

Necessary ingredients

- 500 g yellow beans
- 100 g brined olives (choose green or black olives, depending on preference)
- 100 ml tomatoes in basil sauce
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 1 medium onion
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons potato starch
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the beans

1. Cleaning and washing the beans: Start by cleaning the yellow beans. Check each bean to ensure there are no defects. Once cleaned, wash them thoroughly under cold running water to remove impurities.

2. Boiling the beans: Place the beans in a large pot and add enough water to cover them completely. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let the beans boil for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are soft but not completely mushy.

Helpful tips: If you want to reduce the cooking time, you can soak the beans in cold water for a few hours or overnight before boiling. This helps soften the beans and speeds up the cooking process.

Adding the ingredients

3. Adding the onion and olives: When the beans are almost cooked, finely chop the onion and add it to the pot, along with the drained olives. Mix well to combine the flavors. The onion adds a sweet flavor and a pleasant aroma to the dish.

4. Preparing the sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve the starch in cold water. This will help thicken the sauce. Add the starch mixture to the pot with the beans, along with the tomatoes in sauce. Mix everything well and let it boil for another 5-10 minutes.

Finalizing the dish

5. Seasoning: At this point, it's time to season the dish. Add salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to add the finely chopped garlic, which will enhance the flavor. Garlic not only improves the taste but also brings health benefits, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

6. Garnishing: When the beans are cooked, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Gently mix to distribute the parsley evenly.

Serving

The servings of the dish are varied. You can enjoy it on its own with a slice of fresh bread, or as a side dish alongside schnitzels, fish, or grilled vegetables. A green salad or a tomato salad with onion and olives would also make a perfect accompaniment, bringing a fresh and crunchy contrast.

Variations and suggestions

Beans with olives is a versatile recipe, so feel free to experiment! Here are some variation suggestions:

- White or red beans: You can replace yellow beans with white or red beans, each variant having a different texture and taste.
- Additional vegetables: Add chopped carrots or bell peppers for an extra burst of color and nutrients.
- Spices: Try adding spices like cumin or paprika for a more exotic note.

Nutritional benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and many vitamins, making them a heart-healthy food. Olives, rich in healthy fats, contribute to cardiovascular health. This recipe offers a balanced caloric intake, making it ideal for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned beans? Yes, you can use canned beans, but make sure to rinse them well before use to remove excess salt.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Absolutely! It is a 100% vegan recipe, perfect for those following a plant-based diet.
- How can I store beans with olives? You can store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

Personal note

This recipe for beans with olives reminds me of family meals, where each ingredient was chosen carefully and every bite was savored. It is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also the soul, bringing joy and warmth around the table. I invite you to prepare it and bring your culinary memories to life!

I wish you much success in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!