Are you craving a mouthwatering side dish that's both incredibly simple and devastatingly delicious? Look no further than this Italian-inspired Green Beans and Tomato recipe that will transform your ordinary vegetables into a culinary masterpiece! In just 20 minutes, you'll create a vibrant, fresh dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Prepare to elevate your cooking game with this quick, nutritious, and absolutely irresistible recipe that proves healthy eating can be incredibly exciting and flavorful.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the green beans thoroughly under cool running water, then trim off the tough ends using a sharp knife. Pat the beans dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Prepare the cherry tomatoes by washing them and carefully cutting each tomato in half using a sharp knife. Set aside.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves finely, ensuring the pieces are uniform in size for even flavor distribution.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about 1-2 minutes until it shimmers slightly.
- Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown.
- Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic-infused oil. Spread them evenly across the pan.
- Cook the green beans for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, continuing to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the beans are tender-crisp and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Season the vegetables with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, tossing gently to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the green beans and tomatoes to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh, torn basil leaves just before serving to add a bright, aromatic finish to the dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select crisp, bright green beans and ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Timing is Key: Cook green beans until they're tender-crisp to maintain their vibrant color and nutritional value. Overcooking will make them mushy.
- Garlic Management: Sauté garlic quickly and avoid browning to prevent bitterness. The goal is a fragrant, golden base for your vegetables.
- Oil Temperature: Use medium heat when sautéing to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Seasoning Technique: Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Basil Brilliance: Add fresh basil leaves just before serving to preserve their bright, aromatic qualities.
- Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins or can be served as a light, standalone vegetarian meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
