Green bean dish with zucchini

Green bean and zucchini dish: A delicious and healthy lunch!

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

When it comes to healthy and flavorful dishes, green bean and zucchini dish is one of the most appreciated choices. This recipe is not only nutritious but also perfect for fasting days or for anyone looking for a light yet satisfying meal. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can be easily adapted to personal preferences.

A brief history of the recipe
Green bean and zucchini dish is a classic example of seasonal cooking, reflecting culinary traditions that emphasize fresh and seasonal ingredients. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with each adding their personal touch. The zucchini, with its delicate texture, and green beans, with their crisp freshness, complement each other perfectly, creating a delicious dish.

Necessary ingredients
- 500 g fresh or frozen green beans
- 1 medium zucchini
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (or sweet pepper, if you prefer)
- 1 liter of water (or enough to cover the vegetables)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Ingredient details
- Green beans: Make sure the beans are fresh and crunchy. If using frozen beans, thaw them before adding them to the dish.
- Zucchini: Choose a young zucchini with smooth skin. Larger zucchinis may have large seeds and a less pleasant texture.
- Onion and bell pepper: These vegetables will add depth of flavor to the dish. You can experiment with different types of onions, such as red onion or green onion, for a different taste.

Preparation steps
1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Peel the zucchini if you prefer, and cut it into cubes of about 1-2 cm. Chop the onion and bell pepper into small cubes.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add the water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the green beans, zucchini, onion, and bell pepper. Boil the vegetables for about 30 minutes, or until the beans become tender.

3. Seasoning: Once the vegetables are cooked, add salt, pepper, and the chopped parsley. These seasonings will enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes for the flavors to blend.

4. Serving: Once the dish is ready, you can serve it warm, plain or with a slice of fresh bread. If desired, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil for added flavor.

Serving suggestions
This green bean and zucchini dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh tomato salad or a serving of plain rice. You can also accompany it with Greek yogurt for a creamy and refreshing contrast.

Possible variations
To add an element of flavor, try adding a few slices of carrot or potato. If you want a heartier dish, you can add quinoa or rice. For a slightly spicy taste, add a bit of chopped chili pepper.

Tips and useful advice
- If you want to keep the vegetables as crunchy as possible, do not boil them too long. Check the texture of the green beans after 25 minutes.
- Parsley can be replaced with dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
- If you make a larger quantity, the dish keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This green bean and zucchini dish is not only delicious but also healthy. A serving has about 150-200 calories, being rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins K and C, while zucchini is low in calories but full of antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen green beans are an excellent option. Make sure to thaw them before boiling.
- What can I do with leftovers? The dish can be used as a filling for vegetable pies or to create a delicious soup.
- Is it suitable for vegans? Absolutely! The recipe is 100% vegan and can be adapted for various diets.

In conclusion
Green bean and zucchini dish is not only an easy recipe to prepare but also a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables. It is perfect for quick lunches as well as for more sophisticated dinners. Experiment with flavors and find the combination that delights you the most. Enjoy your meal!