Are you craving a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that combines nutrition and flavor in one delightful dish? Look no further than this classic Green Beans and Rice recipe that promises to elevate your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary! Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with savory goodness, this American-style comfort food will have your family asking for seconds before they've finished their first serving.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the green beans thoroughly under cold water and trim off the ends. Cut the beans into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Peel and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves, ensuring they are chopped into small, uniform pieces.
- In a medium saucepan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pan and add the rice. Stir to combine the rice with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and let the rice simmer for about 12-15 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the green beans by adding them to a separate pan with a small amount of water. Steam the green beans for 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Once the rice is nearly done, add the steamed green beans to the rice pan. Gently fold the beans into the rice.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Fluff the rice with a fork to ensure a light, fluffy texture.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Use fresh, crisp green beans for the best texture and flavor. Look for beans that are bright green and snap easily when bent.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting the rice in the pan with onions and garlic for a minute before adding broth to enhance its nutty undertones.
- Don't overcook the green beans - aim for tender-crisp to maintain their vibrant color and nutritional value. The 5-7 minute steaming time is crucial.
- Choose a good quality vegetable broth to add depth to your rice. Homemade or low-sodium store-bought broths work best.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb any remaining moisture, ensuring a perfectly fluffy texture.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added pop of color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
