Description
Fasolakia is a traditional Greek dish of tender green beans slowly simmered in a rich tomato and olive oil sauce with onions, garlic, and herbs. This wholesome Mediterranean recipe is simple, comforting, and naturally plant-based.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds (700 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, grated (about 1 1/2 cups) or 1 1/2 cups (360 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cut into chunks (optional)
- 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the grated tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Add the green beans and potato (if using), stirring to coat well in the sauce.
- Pour in the water, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add sliced carrots, zucchini, or eggplant for variation.
- A handful of fresh dill adds a brighter herbal flavor.
- For a traditional non-vegetarian version, brown small pieces of beef before adding the onions.
- The flavors deepen and improve the next day.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
