Green bean dish

Green bean dish is a rustic preparation, full of flavors and health benefits, ideal for warm days or during fasting. This simple yet delicious recipe will transport you to a world of fresh tastes, combining crunchy vegetables with the delight of green beans. Let's venture together into preparing this delicacy!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 bags of green beans (approximately 600 g)
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 slices of celery (approximately 100 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 slices of parsnip (approximately 80 g)
- A bunch of fresh dill
- 200 ml of tomato juice (or crushed fresh tomatoes for a more intense flavor)
- 1 garlic clove
- Thyme, salt, pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 30 ml of olive oil (or other vegetable oil)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables. The onion, carrot, celery, and parsnip should be finely chopped. Use a sharp knife to obtain uniform cubes, which will help in even cooking of the vegetables.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the 30 ml of oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the onion and let it sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot, celery, and parsnip. Sautéing the vegetables for 3-4 minutes will release their flavors, creating a delicious base for your dish.

3. Adding the green beans: Wash the green beans and trim the ends. Add the beans to the pot and mix well with the vegetables. This step is essential for allowing the beans to absorb the flavors from the pot.

4. Boiling: Add approximately 300 ml of water to the pot. Make sure the water covers the vegetables, but don't overdo it, as you can add more later. Add salt to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and let everything boil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the beans become tender.

5. Seasoning: When the vegetables are almost cooked, add the pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and tomato juice. The tomato juice will give your dish a pleasant acidity, balancing the flavors of the vegetables. Let everything boil for another 10 minutes for the flavors to combine.

6. Finishing the dish: A few minutes before serving, add a finely chopped garlic clove. This will add an extra flavor to your dish. Finally, add the freshly chopped dill for a fresh and aromatic taste. Mix well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

7. Serving: You can serve the green bean dish warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or with a side of boiled rice. This is a versatile recipe that can be adapted according to your preferences.

Useful tips:
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to add different colors and textures.
- Storage: The green bean dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or in a pan.
- Nutritional benefits: This dish is rich in fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals, making it ideal for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, frozen green beans are an excellent option. Make sure to thaw them before use to avoid excess water in the dish.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the dish? You can add a few drops of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice before serving for a more vibrant taste.

End this culinary experience with a light dessert, like a fruit sorbet or a fresh fruit salad, and savor every moment! Enjoy your meal!