Have you ever craved a flavorsome vegetarian dish that is both simple to make and packed with Greek flavors? Look no further, because we have the perfect recipe for you! Introducing the Delicious Greek Fasolakia Recipe, a mouthwatering dish that showcases the freshness and vibrancy of Greek green beans. This delightful recipe embraces the richness of Greek flavors, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that will transport your taste buds to the sunny beaches of Greece. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure full of flavors and Mediterranean goodness!
Greek Greek Beans – Fasolakia Ingredients
To make delicious Greek fasolakia, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh green beans
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Before you can start cooking, it’s important to prepare all your ingredients. Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim off the ends. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the tomatoes. Measure out the dried oregano and basil, as well as the salt and pepper. With these steps done, you’re ready to start cooking delicious Greek fasolakia!
Step 1: Cleaning the Green Beans
The first step in preparing your Greek fasolakia is to clean the green beans. Start by washing them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Once they are clean, carefully trim off the ends of the beans using a sharp knife. This step ensures that your green beans are ready for cooking and makes them more visually appealing on the plate.
Step 2: Blanching the Green Beans
Blanching the green beans before cooking helps to preserve their vibrant green color and crisp texture. In a large pot of boiling salted water, carefully place the green beans and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. The exact timing may vary depending on the thickness of your beans, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Once the beans are bright green and slightly tender, immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
Step 3: Sautéing the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant. This step helps to build the base flavors of your fasolakia dish and adds a wonderful aroma to your kitchen. Stir the onions and garlic frequently to prevent them from burning.
Step 4: Adding the Tomatoes and Herbs
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, it’s time to add the chopped tomatoes and herbs to the skillet. The tomatoes add a rich and tangy flavor to the dish, while the dried oregano and basil provide a delightful Mediterranean touch. Stir everything together and let the flavors mingle for a few minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their natural juices.
Step 5: Simmering the Fasolakia
Now it’s time to bring all the components of your Greek fasolakia together. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and mix them well with the tomato and herb mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the fasolakia simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the green beans to become tender.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once your fasolakia has simmered to perfection, take off the lid and give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. Serve the fasolakia hot, as a delicious side dish or a vegetarian main course. You can optionally drizzle some olive oil over the top to enhance the flavors even further.
Serving and Storage
Greek fasolakia can be served hot as part of a Greek feast or as a stand-alone dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or some steamed rice. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat the fasolakia in a skillet or microwave before serving to enjoy the flavors once again.
Tips and Variations
- For a heartier dish, you can add some diced potatoes or carrots to the skillet along with the green beans. This variation adds more texture and substance to the dish.
- To make it a complete meal, you can serve your fasolakia with some crumbled feta cheese on top. The creamy and tangy cheese complements the flavors of the dish beautifully.
- If you prefer a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet. This adds a kick of heat that contrasts well with the mild green beans.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize your fasolakia. Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be used instead of or in addition to the dried oregano and basil.
- Don’t overcook the green beans during the blanching and simmering steps. Aim for a slightly crunchy texture to retain their freshness and vibrant color.
With this comprehensive recipe, you are now equipped to create a delicious Greek fasolakia dish. Enjoy the combination of tender green beans, savory tomatoes, and aromatic herbs in every bite. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, fasolakia is a flavorful and satisfying option. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your taste buds with this delightful Greek recipe!
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Author: Bob
With over 20 years in Bioinformatics and AI in Molecular Diagnostics, Bob Stavrou advises BiCos, focusing on authenticating OLIVE OIL DNA. He's also a passionate contributor to YouTube Cooking with Greek People and appeared on Greek TV show Savvatokiriako Me Ton Manesi, bridging science and culinary arts. Watch it on Alpha TV.
