Name: Green Beans With Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity); 1 tsp dried or 1 tbsp fresh herbs (oregano, thyme, or basil); 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines fresh green beans with a savory tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and herbs, making it both nutritious and delicious. It’s easy to prepare, uses minimal ingredients, and is a great way to add a burst of color and flavor to your meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh green beans (trimmed)
Canned crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Fresh or dried herbs (such as oregano, thyme, or basil)
Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Directions

Blanch green beans in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, add herbs, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and stir to coat with the tomato sauce.
Cover and simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes until beans are tender and flavors meld.
Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Use fresh tomatoes in season for a fresher sauce.
Sprinkle with feta cheese or fresh parsley before serving.
Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, thaw and drain well before adding to the sauce.

Can this dish be served cold?

It’s best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it contains no animal products.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too acidic?

Add a pinch of sugar or a splash of lemon juice to balance acidity.

What herbs work best?

Oregano, thyme, basil, or parsley all complement this dish.

How do I know when green beans are done?

They should be tender but still have a slight crunch.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Green Beans with Tomato Sauce is a simple, flavorful side that adds color, nutrition, and robust Mediterranean flavors to any meal. Easy to prepare and versatile, this dish is perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike.