Greek Green Beans Fasolakia: A Traditional Comfort Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fasolakia is one of those dishes that proves how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. The slow-cooked green beans absorb the rich tomato sauce, seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and herbs, resulting in a comforting and satisfying dish. It’s naturally vegan and can be made gluten-free. The tanginess of the tomatoes and the depth of olive oil make it a hearty yet light meal. With minimal effort and basic ingredients, Fasolakia is a perfect example of how Mediterranean cuisine can deliver bold flavors in a healthy, nourishing way.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup water (or vegetable broth)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to darken slightly.
4. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the water or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Add the green beans, stirring them into the tomato sauce. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low.
7. Let the beans cook slowly for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
8. Once the beans are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and dill (if using) before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add potatoes: For a heartier meal, you can add chopped potatoes to the dish. They’ll soak up the tomato sauce and add texture.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili for some heat.
• Add protein: To make it more filling, add some cooked chickpeas, white beans, or even feta cheese.
• Other herbs: You can experiment with other Mediterranean herbs like thyme or basil for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Fasolakia can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the dish gently on the stove over low heat. If it thickens too much, you can add a splash of water or broth to bring it back to the desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans for Fasolakia?

While fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen green beans in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, Fasolakia actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. It’s a great dish for meal prep.

Can I make Fasolakia spicy?

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, fresh chili, or even some hot paprika for extra heat.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no modifications are needed.

What can I serve with Fasolakia?

Fasolakia can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, couscous, or crusty bread. It can also be paired with grilled meats or fish for a fuller meal.

How long do I need to cook the green beans?

Green beans should cook for about 30-40 minutes, depending on your desired tenderness. The slow cooking allows them to soak up the rich tomato sauce.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just dice them and cook them down until they release their juices. You may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they soften properly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat for the best texture.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, Fasolakia is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. You can add feta cheese or yogurt if you prefer.

Can I freeze Fasolakia?

Yes, you can freeze Fasolakia for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container and allow it to cool completely before freezing.

Conclusion

Fasolakia is a simple yet flavorful Greek dish that showcases the beauty of Mediterranean cuisine. With its tender green beans, rich tomato sauce, and fragrant herbs, it’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether served as a side or as a main course, Fasolakia is a versatile and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Greece in your own home. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a healthy, easy-to-make meal.

Greek Green Beans Fasolakia: A Traditional Comfort Dish

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Fasolakia is a traditional Greek dish featuring green beans stewed in a rich tomato sauce with olive oil, garlic, onions, and Mediterranean herbs. This hearty yet light dish is perfect as a main or side and is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish, Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1. 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
2. 1 medium onion, chopped
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
4. 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
5. 2 tablespoons tomato paste
6. ¼ cup olive oil
7. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
8. ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
9. ¼ teaspoon black pepper
10. 1 cup water (or vegetable broth)
11. 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
12. 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional)

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Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

1. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to darken slightly.
3. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the water or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the green beans, stirring them into the tomato sauce. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low.
6. Let the beans cook slowly for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Once the beans are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and dill (if using) before serving.

Notes

1. Fasolakia can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. If the dish thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of water or broth to bring it back to the desired consistency.
3. If using frozen green beans, thaw them before cooking for the best texture.
4. The dish can be made spicier by adding red pepper flakes, fresh chili, or hot paprika.
5. For a heartier meal, add chopped potatoes to the dish.
6. This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it ideal for those with gluten sensitivities.
7. Fasolakia tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it perfect for meal prep.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg