Green Beans with Olives and Tomatoes

Looking to add a burst of flavor to your dinner table? Look no further than this vibrant and delicious recipe for Green Beans with Olives and Tomatoes. With the earthy crunch of green beans, the briny tang of olives, and the juicy sweetness of tomatoes, this dish is a celebration of summer flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant side dish to accompany your main course or a satisfying vegetarian meal on its own, this recipe is sure to impress. So let’s dive in and create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Ingredients:

Produce:

• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 4 cups Green beans, trimmed
• 3 tbsp Fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or thyme), chopped
• 2 cups Tomatoes, diced

Condiments:

• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

Baking & Spices:

• 1/2 tsp Black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/2 tsp Kosher salt

Oils & Vinegars:

• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tbsp Red wine vinegar

Instructions:

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain the green beans and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften and release their juices.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the Olives and Herbs: Stir in the sliced Kalamata olives and chopped fresh herbs. Continue to cook for another minute or two, until the olives are warmed through and the herbs are fragrant.
5. Finish with Red Wine Vinegar: Drizzle the red wine vinegar over the green beans and tomatoes, tossing gently to coat. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the green beans with olives and tomatoes to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot or at room temperature as a delightful side dish or a flavorful vegetarian main course.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the skillet along with the green beans and tomatoes.
• Cheese Garnish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese over the finished dish for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers for a touch of heat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh? A: While fresh green beans are preferred for this recipe, you can certainly use frozen green beans if that’s what you have on hand. Simply thaw them before blanching, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes! This dish can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Can I use different types of olives? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different varieties of olives, such as green olives, Castelvetrano olives, or Spanish Manzanilla olives, to add unique flavors and textures to the dish.

Q: What can I serve this with? A: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. It also makes a delicious addition to a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter or antipasto spread.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, you can still enjoy the flavors of this dish with a few simple modifications:

• Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of tomatoes and olives to lower the carbohydrate content of the dish.
• Extra Vegetables: Increase the amount of green beans and add additional low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cauliflower to bulk up the dish.
• Healthy Fats: Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or sprinkle with chopped nuts or seeds for added healthy fats and crunch.

Green Beans with Olives and Tomatoes is a versatile and flavorful dish that celebrates the bounty of summer produce. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying crunch, it’s the perfect side dish to brighten up any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a colorful accompaniment to grilled meats, or a flavorful addition to your next gathering, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to savor the fresh and delicious goodness of Green Beans with Olives and Tomatoes!