Green beans with garlic

Green beans with garlic – a simple yet flavorful recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Green beans with garlic is a traditional dish that brings the authentic taste of fresh vegetables and aromatic garlic to the table. This recipe is perfect for hot summer days but can be enjoyed in any season due to its versatility. It not only provides important nutritional value but also an explosion of flavors that will take you back to your childhood.

Basic ingredients:

- 500 g fresh green beans
- 5-6 garlic cloves (or more if you love intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt to taste
- Water

Ingredient details:

Green beans are a vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, with a high fiber content that aids digestion and maintains cardiovascular health. Garlic not only adds an unmistakable taste but is also known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. So, you will not only enjoy a delicious dish but also boost your immune system!

Step by step – Cooking green beans with garlic

1. Preparing the beans: Start by washing the green beans well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or stems.

2. Boiling the beans: Place the beans in a pot with salted water, enough to cover them completely. Bring the water to a boil and let the beans cook for about 8-10 minutes. You can test their texture – they should be crisp but not hard.

3. Draining the beans: Once the beans are cooked, drain them well, ensuring all the water is removed. This step is essential to avoid a watery dish.

4. Preparing the garlic paste: In a bowl, crush the garlic cloves using a mortar and pestle or a fork. Add a pinch of salt (the salt helps release the flavors) and gradually add a few tablespoons of water. Mix well until you achieve a smooth paste. Taste and adjust the salt according to your preferences.

5. Sautéing the beans: In a pan, heat the 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the drained beans and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. The oil will enhance the flavor of the beans.

6. Adding the garlic paste: After the beans have been sautéed, add the garlic paste over them. Mix well to coat each piece of bean with the garlic flavors. Let the dish cook for 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.

7. Serving: Green beans with garlic are served warm, ideally alongside a serving of steaming polenta. This combination is not only traditional but also extremely satisfying. If you wish, you can sprinkle some freshly chopped dill or grated parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Tips and useful advice:

- Make sure the beans are fresh, preferably from the market or garden, to achieve a special taste.
- If you don't have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but the flavors won't be as intense.
- An interesting variation is to add some halved cherry tomatoes to the pan in the last minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Delicious pairings:

Green beans with garlic pair perfectly with grilled chicken or pork, as well as with grilled fish. Additionally, a tomato salad or a sauerkraut salad can complement the meal, providing a pleasant contrast of flavors.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe is low in calories, with approximately 120 calories per serving, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Green beans are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and contribute to eye and skin health.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen beans? Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but the cooking time will be slightly longer.
- How can I store leftovers? Green beans with garlic store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a pan, being careful not to dry them out too much.
- Is this recipe vegan? Absolutely! This recipe contains no animal products, making it perfect for vegans.

A personal note:

This green beans with garlic recipe reminds me of days spent in the garden, where I would pick fresh vegetables and turn them into simple yet delicious dishes. Every bite is a true celebration of flavors and memories. I encourage you to try it and share the joy of savoring a simple yet emotional dish with your loved ones!

So, get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal with green beans with garlic! Enjoy your meal!