Green beans with tomatoes baked by Miha

Green Beans with Tomatoes Baked – A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Who doesn't love the simple and authentic flavors of a lovingly cooked meal? Today's recipe, green beans with tomatoes baked, is a perfect choice for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive gathering. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor. Let's discover together how we can transform simple ingredients into something truly special!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g green beans (preferably green, but you can also use yellow)
- 1 medium white onion
- 1 cup tomato purée (about 250 ml)
- 1 cup meat broth (about 250 ml, you can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- A little white pepper (optional)
- 2 tomatoes (ripe and good, preferably from the garden or market)
- Fresh parsley leaves for garnish

Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by washing the green beans well. Cut off both ends of each bean and then cut them into pieces about 5 cm long. They will cook evenly and absorb the delicious flavors of the dish.

Step 2: The onion
Peel and finely chop the white onion. It will develop a sweet and savory aroma when sautéed. In a pan, add a little olive oil or sunflower oil and sauté the onion over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.

Step 3: Assemble the dish
In a heatproof dish, add the sautéed onion and evenly layer the green beans on top. Sprinkle with salt, dried thyme, and white pepper. These spices will enhance the flavor of the vegetables.

Step 4: The tomatoes
Wash the tomatoes and slice them. Evenly arrange them over the green beans. Fresh tomatoes not only add flavor but also an appetizing look to your dish.

Step 5: The sauce
Pour the tomato purée and meat broth (or vegetable broth) over the vegetables. It is important that the liquid lightly covers the beans so that they cook evenly and do not dry out.

Step 6: Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let it bake for about 30 minutes, then remove the foil or lid for the last 15 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate and achieve a more concentrated texture.

Step 7: Serving
Green beans with tomatoes are delicious served warm alongside soft polenta and garlic sauce. This combination will add extra flavor to your dish and turn the meal into a real feast. Don't forget to sprinkle fresh parsley leaves on top for a fresh and aromatic look.

Practical tips:
- If you are using frozen green beans, there is no need to thaw them before use. They will cook just as well in the oven.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for a richer version of the dish.
- Instead of meat broth, you can use water with spices for a vegan or vegetarian option.

Nutritional benefits:
Green beans are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are low in calories, with about 31 calories per 100 g. They help maintain healthy digestion and contribute to weight control. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which are important for a strong immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can use white or red beans, but the cooking time may change.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Green beans with tomatoes keep well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, by replacing the meat broth with water or vegetable broth, the recipe becomes vegan.

Possible variations:
- You can add some black or green olives for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Instead of tomato purée, you can try soy sauce for an Asian style, adding some spices like ginger or fresh garlic.

Serving suggestions:
To add a twist, you can serve the green beans with a yogurt and garlic sauce, which will add a fresh and creamy note.

In the end, I hope this recipe for green beans with tomatoes baked will inspire you to cook and enjoy the moments spent at the table with your loved ones. Cooking is an art, and you are the artist! Savor every moment and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends. Enjoy your meal!