Beans with garlic sauce

Delicious green bean paste recipe with garlic sauce

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

In a world full of elaborate recipes and sophisticated dishes, sometimes it's good to return to our culinary roots and enjoy the simplicity and authentic taste of fresh ingredients. Green beans, a versatile ingredient, are not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. This garlic sauce green bean paste recipe is my favorite, learned from my mother, and I warmly recommend it as a light and healthy meal, perfect for hot summer days.

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g green beans (pods)
- 2 medium onions
- 4-5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for extra flavor)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 10-12 garlic cloves (for a flavorful sauce)
- A bunch of fresh dill (optional, but recommended for a fresher taste)

To make this green bean paste with garlic sauce, you will need a few simple yet quality ingredients. Fresh green beans are preferred, but if you don't have access to them, you can also use frozen beans. Make sure your choice of olive oil is extra virgin, as its quality will directly influence the final dish's flavor.

The steps to prepare this dish are simple and quick:

1. Preparing the green beans: Start by cleaning the pods. Cut off the ends and, if necessary, break them into smaller pieces. Wash them well under cold running water.

2. Boiling the beans: Place the green beans in a pot of boiling water, adding a teaspoon of salt. Let them boil for 8-10 minutes until tender but still crunchy. Avoid overcooking them, as you want to maintain their vibrant color and texture.

3. Preparing the onions: While the beans are boiling, peel and finely chop the onions. In a large frying pan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden and soft. This will add a sweet and aromatic note to the dish.

4. Preparing the garlic sauce: In a mortar or using a garlic press, crush the garlic cloves. Add a teaspoon of salt and mix well to form a smooth paste. If you want a creamier sauce, you can gradually add a few tablespoons of olive oil.

5. Combining the ingredients: Once the beans are boiled, drain them and add them to the pan with the sautéed onions. Mix well to combine the flavors. Add the garlic sauce over the beans and onions, mixing again. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.

6. Finishing the dish: Once the ingredients are well combined and the flavors have melded, add the finely chopped dill (if using) and mix gently.

7. Serving: This green bean paste with garlic sauce can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside fresh bread or as a side dish to various meals. A fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers will perfectly complement the meal.

Serving suggestion: For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a few slices of lemon or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to enhance the tastes.

Nutritional benefits: Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, which aids digestion. They are also rich in antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
2. What else can I add to the recipe? You can experiment with other herbs, such as parsley or basil, or add chili peppers for a spicy kick.
3. How can I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

This green bean paste with garlic sauce recipe is not just a delicious dish but also a memory full of tradition. May the taste bring you joy and inspire you to explore more simple and healthy recipes in your kitchen!