Description
Fasolakia is a traditional Greek dish featuring tender green beans simmered in a rich tomato and olive oil sauce, accented with garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. This comforting and flavorful recipe is topped with kalamata olives and creamy feta cheese, offering a perfect balance of savory and tangy notes. Ideal as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 lbs green beans (trimmed and cut in half)
- 1 cup white or red onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp parsley (chopped)
Liquids and Oils
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 15 ounce crushed tomatoes in puree
Seasonings
- 1/8 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Toppings
- 12 kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup feta cheese cubes
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Beans: Trim the stems from the green beans and cut them in half. Wash thoroughly and drain them using a colander. Set aside for cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release their fragrance.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil to combine the flavors.
- Cook the Green Beans: Add the green beans to the skillet, tossing them so they are thoroughly coated with the tomato sauce and olive oil. Reduce the heat to simmer, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the beans are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley to add freshness. Serve the fasolakia warm or at room temperature, topped with crumbled feta cheese cubes and kalamata olives for a classic Greek touch.
Notes
- Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if using salted feta.
- Can be served as a main vegetarian dish or a side to grilled meats or fish.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste even better after flavors meld.
- For a vegan version, omit feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
