Green beans in tomato stew is a classic Italian side dish that pairs perfectly with meat and fish, adding a light and flavorful touch to the meal. This recipe is very convenient, involving only a few simple steps: there’s no need to boil the green beans separately, as they cook directly in the sauce. Green beans are often recommended in diets because they are rich in fiber and low in calories, and they have a notable diuretic effect. However, their natural flavor is not always appreciated by everyone. That’s why it’s helpful to have a recipe that transforms them into a delicious dish, like green beans in tomato stew.
Preparing stewed green beans is extremely simple and versatile. Depending on personal preference, you can use fresh tomatoes, canned tomatoes, or tomato puree to create the sauce base. Personally, I opted for a mix of fresh cherry tomatoes and tomato puree to achieve a creamy and rich sauce. You can serve green beans in tomato stew hot or warm, garnished with a few fresh basil leaves, which will add a touch of freshness and vibrancy to the dish.
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Ingredients for green beans in tomato stew
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How to prepare green beans in tomato stew without boiling them
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To prepare green beans in tomato stew, start by thoroughly washing the green beans, then trim off both ends.
Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them into pieces, then mix them in a bowl with the tomato puree. Cut the onion into thin slices. Pour the oil into a pot or a large non-stick pan and add the onion. Let it sauté briefly over low heat.
Then add the cherry tomatoes and the tomato puree. Shortly after, add about 1 cup of hot water and the green beans.
Add salt, stir briefly, and cover with a lid. Let the green beans stew for about 35-40 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the green beans: thinner ones are ready after 30 minutes, while thicker ones can take up to 45 minutes.
It’s a good idea to taste them during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking. Once cooked, season them with some chopped basil and let the sauce thicken before turning off the heat.
You can serve the stewed green beans hot or at room temperature; although they are a side dish, in larger quantities, they can also be enjoyed as a light vegetarian main course.
How to store
You can store the green beans in tomato sauce in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What can I use instead of onion?
If you don’t like onion, you can add two or three whole petals to remove at the end of cooking, or you can replace it with a clove of garlic.
Varied doses for servings