Green Beans in Olive Oil

Green Beans in Olive Oil Recipe - Authentic Saudi Arabian Taste

Region / culture: Saudi Arabia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Green Beans in Olive Oil is a classic Mediterranean dish that highlights the simplicity and freshness of green beans. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of green beans with the richness of olive oil, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

History

Green Beans in Olive Oil has its origins in Mediterranean cuisine, where olive oil is a staple ingredient. This dish is often served as part of a mezze spread or as a side dish to grilled meats and fish. The combination of green beans, tomatoes, and onions cooked in olive oil creates a flavorful and healthy dish that is enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of green beans
1 medium onion, chopped
2 chopped tomatoes
1 tsp of salt
0.33 cup of extra virgin olive oil
3.5 tsp of sugar
0.5 to 2 cups of water

How to prepare

Trim the beans and cut them into 3 pieces. Wash and drain them.
Put the onion and tomato into a heavy pan.
Sprinkle salt over them and lightly rub it in with your fingers.
Stir in the beans, olive oil, and sugar. Mix well.
Cover the pan and cook over medium heat for 15 minutes.
Stir occasionally.
The beans will lose their color and soften.
Once all the moisture has been absorbed, stir-fry the beans for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add 0.5 cup of water, cover the pan, and simmer for 40 to 50 minutes until the beans are tender.
Add more water if necessary, 0.5 cup at a time.
When cooked, the dish should be very moist but not watery.
Serve cold as part of a buffet.

Variations

Add garlic or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Top with crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to trim the ends of the green beans before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.

- Cooking the onions and tomatoes first helps to build a flavorful base for the dish.

- Stir the beans occasionally while cooking to prevent them from sticking to the pan.

- Adjust the amount of water added during cooking to achieve the desired consistency of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Green Beans in Olive Oil can be served as a side dish to grilled meats or fish, or as part of a mezze spread with other Mediterranean dishes.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the beans in olive oil helps to infuse them with flavor and create a tender texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use frozen green beans if fresh ones are not available.

- Substitute red or yellow onions for the white onion in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Green Beans in Olive Oil can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Green Beans in Olive Oil in a shallow serving dish, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Green Beans in Olive Oil with grilled chicken or lamb, a fresh salad, and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Green Beans in Olive Oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a pan on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Green Beans in Olive Oil contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Green Beans in Olive Oil is a low-carb dish, with approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Olive oil is a healthy source of fats in this dish, providing heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

Proteins

Green beans are a good source of plant-based proteins, with approximately 2 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts.

Summary

Green Beans in Olive Oil is a nutritious dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories, while providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Green Beans in Olive Oil is a simple and flavorful dish that showcases the natural goodness of green beans and olive oil. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Green Beans in Olive Oil. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook that had been tucked away in the back of my pantry for years. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on the simple yet intriguing ingredients list: fresh green beans, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of salt and pepper.

I had always been a lover of green beans, but I had never thought to prepare them in such a way. The recipe seemed to beckon me, calling out to my culinary senses and urging me to give it a try. And so, with a sense of determination, I set out to recreate this dish in my own kitchen.

I began by gathering all of the necessary ingredients, making sure to select only the freshest green beans from the farmer's market down the road. As I snapped off the ends and trimmed the beans, I couldn't help but marvel at their vibrant green color and crisp texture. I knew that these beans were going to be something special.

Next, I minced several cloves of garlic and heated up a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet. The aroma that wafted through the kitchen was intoxicating, filling the air with the warm, earthy scent of the Mediterranean. I added the garlic to the oil, allowing it to sizzle and release its fragrant oils before tossing in the green beans.

As the beans cooked, I watched them closely, stirring them occasionally to ensure that they cooked evenly. The green beans began to soften and take on a glossy sheen as they absorbed the flavors of the garlic-infused olive oil. I couldn't help but sneak a taste, and I was immediately transported to a sun-drenched garden in Tuscany, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a bustling marketplace.

When the green beans were perfectly tender, I removed them from the heat and sprinkled them with a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh black pepper. The final touch was a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, which added a luxurious richness to the dish. I plated the green beans with a sense of pride, knowing that I had created something truly special.

As I took my first bite, I was met with a burst of flavor that danced across my taste buds. The green beans were tender yet still slightly crisp, with a hint of sweetness that paired perfectly with the savory garlic and peppery olive oil. Each bite was a revelation, a symphony of flavors that sang in perfect harmony.

I knew in that moment that this recipe for Green Beans in Olive Oil would become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would turn to time and time again to bring a taste of the Mediterranean into my home. And as I savored each mouthful, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous discovery of this recipe and the journey it had taken me on. Cooking has always been a source of joy and inspiration for me, and this simple yet elegant dish was a reminder of the beauty and magic that can be found in the kitchen.

So now, whenever I prepare Green Beans in Olive Oil, I am transported back to that warm summer day when curiosity led me to discover a new favorite recipe. And as I share this dish with my family and friends, I hope that it brings them the same joy and delight that it brings me. Cooking is a journey, a dance of flavors and aromas that can transport us to far-off places and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly grateful.