Garlicky Italian Green Beans Fagiolini Aglio E Olio
Recipe Introduction
Ever find yourself staring into the fridge? Wondering what to make as a quick side? This italian green beans recipe is just the ticket! It's simple, flavourful, and comes together in a flash.
A Taste of Italy on Your Plate
Fagiolini aglio e olio translates to green beans with garlic and oil. This easy green bean side dish originates from Italy. It's a staple in many Italian homes. It's quick to make!
This green bean recipe easy is perfect for beginner cooks. It takes about 15 minutes. This recipe serves about 4 people.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Garlic green beans are packed with vitamins. They're also low in calories. This dish is great for a weeknight dinner. It’s a much healthier alternative to italian green bean casserole .
This recipe is special because of its simplicity. The green beans with garlic and olive oil are so tasty! Honestly, once you try it, you’ll make it again and again.
This dish could also be made with string beans italian style .
Alright, now that you know the basics, let's gather the ingredients!
Getting Down to Brass Tacks: Ingredients & Equipment
Let's talk italian green beans . Honestly, this easy green bean side dish is all about simple, fresh ingredients. I remember the first time I made garlic green beans .
I was so worried about getting it right! But trust me, it's foolproof.
Main Ingredients: Keep it Real
- 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed. Look for firm, bright green beans without blemishes. They should snap when you bend them.
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) extra virgin olive oil. Good quality olive oil makes a huge difference.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh is always best, you know?
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste). Adds a little kick!
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Seasoning is key, innit?
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice (optional). It brightens things up.
Seasoning Notes: Aromatic Bliss
For these green beans with garlic and olive oil , don't skimp on the garlic. It's the star! Red pepper flakes add a lovely warmth.
If you are not a chilli head don't use it!
Essential spice combination: Garlic and red pepper flakes.
Flavor enhancers and aromatics: Freshly ground black pepper. And that lemon juice.
Quick substitution options: No red pepper flakes? A pinch of dried chilli powder works.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple, Stupid
- Large skillet or frying pan. A non-stick one is perfect, mate.
- Cutting board.
- Knife.
- Garlic press (optional). Honestly, it makes life easier.
This green bean recipe easy is all about minimal fuss. You probably have everything you need already. If you don't have a garlic press, just mince the garlic finely.
The sautéed green beans are ready in minutes, so have your gear prepped and ready! No need to go crazy buying fancy equipment for this.
The recipe makes a perfect italian side dishes . This is a great way to get some green bean recipes on your table.
I was thinking about this string beans italian style . You know, it's like a warm hug on a plate. Don't even get me started with an italian green bean casserole .
Italian Green Beans: Quick, Garlicky Perfection
Honestly, sometimes the simplest dishes are the best. And these italian green beans ? They're totally up there. We're talking tender crisp green beans with garlic and olive oil , all ready in about 15 minutes.
Perfect for a midweek meal when you just can't be bothered with a massive cooking saga.
Prep Like a Pro (Or at Least Look Like One)
Before you even think about turning on the hob, get your mise en place sorted. That's fancy chef speak for having everything chopped, measured, and ready to go.
Wash and trim 1 pound of fresh green beans. Mince 3 cloves of garlic seriously, fresh garlic is key here.
Trust me.
step-by-step: From Humble Bean to Italian Dream
- Prep the italian green beans : Ensure they are dry.
- Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust for your spice tolerance) and sauté for about 30 seconds . Watch carefully! Burnt garlic is a flavour assassin.
- Chuck in the green beans, season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the garlic green beans , stirring now and then, for 7- 8 minutes , or until they're tender crisp. You want them still to have a bit of bite.
- If you're feeling fancy, stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This brightens up all the flavours. Taste. Season. Serve.
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Bean Game
Want to take your sautéed green beans to the next level? Here are some things to consider. First, don't overcrowd the pan .
If you have too many beans, cook them in batches for even cooking. The key is to ensure even cooking.
Second, toast slivered almonds or pine nuts and sprinkle them over the top for a bit of crunch. It is a lovely italian side dish .
You can prep these green beans ahead. Just cook them until nearly done, then chill and reheat before serving. This also saves you time during your dinner serving.
Sometimes I'll sub the green beans for runner beans, just because, and use butter instead of olive oil for that extra richness.
Call me crazy, but it works. This easy green bean side dish has saved me on so many occasions. Serve your string beans italian style !
So, there you have it! Give these fagiolini aglio e olio a try. I bet even your fussy eaters will give them a go. You never know!
Recipe Notes
This green bean recipe easy is super adaptable. It's more a guideline than a rigid set of rules, honestly. Feel free to tweak it! It is one of the easiest italian side dishes there is!
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key. Pile your garlic green beans high on a serving dish. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil never hurts. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts? Oh my gosh! Perfection.
Serve these string beans italian style alongside grilled chicken or fish. They're great with pasta too. A simple tomato salad makes a fab sidekick.
As for drinks, a crisp Italian white wine is just the ticket.
Storing Those Greens: Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Pop them in an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, a quick sauté in a pan works best.
Microwaving is an option but honestly, they can get a bit soggy.
Freezing? I wouldn't recommend it. Green beans tend to lose their texture. Best to enjoy them fresh!
Spice It Up (or Not!): Variations
Want a vegan version? Easy peasy! Just make sure you use olive oil only. For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes.
Seasonal swap? In autumn, try adding roasted butternut squash. It pairs beautifully with the fagiolini aglio e olio . You can even add a few crispy bacon bits to give it that extra wow!
Knowledge is Power: Nutrition Basics
Okay, let’s talk numbers. A serving of these italian green beans is roughly 120 calories. You get about 2 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and 7 grams of carbs.
But honestly, who's counting?
Sautéed green beans are packed with vitamins A and C, plus fiber. Green beans with garlic and olive oil are good for you. You know?
Final Thoughts
This italian green bean casserole is a winner. It's quick, it’s easy, and it tastes amazing. So, grab some italian green beans , get in the kitchen, and give it a whirl.
It is a very easy green bean side dish . You won't regret it. Trust me!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe? Will they still taste good in these italian green beans?
While fresh green beans are definitely the bee's knees for this recipe, you can use frozen in a pinch. Just be aware that the texture will be softer and they might release more water during cooking. Make sure to cook off any excess water so they don't get too soggy, yeah?
Help! My garlic keeps burning. How do I prevent burnt garlic when making these garlicky italian green beans?
Burnt garlic is a culinary crime! To avoid this, keep the heat at medium and don't walk away from the stove. Sauté the garlic for just 30 seconds or until fragrant, and make sure it's finely minced so it cooks evenly.
If you're still having trouble, add the garlic after the green beans have cooked for a couple of minutes.
What's the best way to store leftover italian green beans?
Leftover Italian green beans can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can microwave them or sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil to bring them back to life. They might lose a bit of their crispness, but they'll still be tasty!
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier? I like a bit of a kick!
Absolutely! If you're a spice fiend, don't hold back on the red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce, like sriracha, for an extra kick. For a more subtle heat, infuse your olive oil with a chili pepper before cooking.
Are italian green beans healthy? What's the nutritional lowdown?
Italian green beans are a relatively healthy side dish. They're low in calories and fat, but packed with fiber and vitamins. Just remember that the olive oil adds calories, so use it sparingly if you're watching your waistline. And of course, everything in moderation, eh?
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Get creative and throw in some other veggies that you enjoy. Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some cherry tomatoes would be lovely additions. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked through and tender crisp.
Garlicky Italian Green Beans Fagiolini Aglio E O
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 120 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 7g |
