Name: Fasolakia (Greek Green Beans) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 lbs green beans (trimmed and cut in half); 1 cup white or red onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tbsp parsley (chopped); 1/2 cup olive oil; 15 ounce crushed tomatoes in puree; 1/8 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 12 kalamata olives; 1/2 cup feta cheese cubes

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 54 reviews

There is something truly comforting and soulful about the Fasolakia (Greek Green Beans) Recipe, a beloved dish that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. This recipe brings tender green beans simmered gently in a luscious tomato sauce infused with garlic and onions, finished with the salty punch of kalamata olives and creamy feta cheese. It’s a perfect example of how simple, fresh ingredients come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and bright, inviting you to enjoy a piece of Greece right at your dining table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pan is filled with thick red sauce made of ground ingredients and small pieces of onion, giving it a textured look. A wooden spoon with some sauce on it lies inside the pan, resting on the surface of the sauce, spreading slightly from the center to the left side. The pan handles are silver and the background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Fasolakia (Greek Green Beans) Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient has a purpose, contributing to its rich flavor, hearty texture, and inviting color. Together, they transform humble green beans into a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

2 lbs green beans (trimmed): Choose fresh, crisp green beans for the best texture and flavor.
1/2 cup olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to bring richness and a classic Mediterranean touch.
1 cup white or red onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a fragrant and savory kick that makes the dish irresistible.
15 ounce crushed tomatoes in puree: Creates the hearty base of the sauce, giving the beans a tangy, vibrant coating.
1/8 tsp sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and subtle spice.
2 tbsp parsley (chopped): Fresh parsley brightens the dish with its herbaceous note.
12 kalamata olives: These give a salty, briny contrast that makes every bite interesting.
1/2 cup feta cheese cubes: Creamy and tangy, feta balances the acidity and adds richness.

How to Make Fasolakia (Greek Green Beans) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Start by trimming the green bean stems and cutting each bean in half for easier eating and even cooking. Give them a thorough wash and let them drain well in a colander. Fresh, well-prepped beans are the foundation for this delicious recipe.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onions and sauté gently until they become translucent and sweet-scented, setting the stage for the garlic and tomatoes. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper, then bring everything to a gentle boil. This mixture will become the heart of the sauce, rich with aromatic layers.

Step 3: Simmer the Green Beans

Now it’s time to add your green beans. Toss them thoroughly in the tomato and olive oil mixture so they are fully coated, which helps them soak up all the flavors. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover with a lid, and let the beans cook slowly for 30 to 35 minutes, until they are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated. This slow simmer ensures a beautifully melded and concentrated flavor.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once the beans are perfectly soft, stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh, herbal brightness. Serve the Fasolakia (Greek Green Beans) Recipe warm or at room temperature, generously topped with creamy feta cheese cubes and scattered kalamata olives. These final touches elevate the dish with their contrasting textures and flavors.

How to Serve Fasolakia (Greek Green Beans) Recipe

A white bowl filled with a green bean dish in three layers: the bottom layer has green beans with a shiny, smooth texture; the middle layer is a mix of chunky red tomato sauce and whole dark purple and green olives; the top layer is sprinkled with small pieces of white cheese and chopped green herbs, adding a fresh touch; all the layers are coated lightly with red oil, giving a shiny look. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a small blue and white patterned salt shaker to the top right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The parsley, kalamata olives, and feta cheese are classic garnishes that bring layers of flavor and texture to this dish. The salty feta and briny olives complement the tender beans beautifully while the fresh parsley adds a pop of vibrant color and brightness.

Side Dishes

Fasolakia shines as a healthy side dish alongside grilled meats like lamb or chicken, or it can star on a vegetarian platter with warm pita and hummus. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up all that luscious tomato sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern twist, serve this dish in a shallow bowl with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch. Alternatively, enjoy it atop a bed of fluffy couscous or rice to make a fuller meal. The possibilities are endless and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Fasolakia keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the beans from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, but keep in mind that the texture of the green beans might soften slightly after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the Fasolakia on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short bursts to prevent overcooking. Adding a splash of water or olive oil during reheating helps keep the beans tender and saucy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can work well if you puree them first. However, canned crushed tomatoes provide a consistent texture and flavor that make the cooking process easier and the sauce more reliable in thickness.

Is this dish traditionally served hot or cold?

Fasolakia is typically served warm or at room temperature. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed either way, so feel free to experiment with how you serve it depending on the season or your preference.

Can I substitute kalamata olives with another type?

While kalamata olives give the authentic salty and slightly fruity punch, you can substitute with other black olives if needed. Just avoid very mild olives, as they won’t provide the same depth of flavor.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. The green beans and tomato sauce are naturally vegan and delicious on their own.

How do I know when the green beans are cooked perfectly?

The beans should be tender but not mushy. After simmering for 30-35 minutes, test by poking a bean with a fork – it should slide in easily but still hold its shape without falling apart.

Final Thoughts

This Fasolakia (Greek Green Beans) Recipe is a rustic, heartwarming dish that brings a little taste of Greece into your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and soulful flavors, it’s sure to become a comforting favorite whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends. Give it a try and savor the delightful harmony of tender beans, rich tomatoes, and savory accents that make this dish truly special.