Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe for Italian Green Beans! Tender-crisp green beans are blanched to perfection before being sautéed in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, then tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes that bring a burst of sweetness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat, while optional toppings like freshly grated Parmesan and fragrant basil take this dish to the next level. Perfect as a quick and healthy side for weeknight dinners or as a crowd-pleasing accompaniment to your favorite Italian mains, this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes and serves four. Whether you're looking for a fresh twist on classic green beans or simply love Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this dish is a must-try!
Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
Add the green beans to the pot and blanch them for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
Drain the green beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
Stir in the blanched green beans, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat the green beans evenly in the tomato and garlic mixture.
Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through and tender.
Remove the skillet from heat. If desired, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil over the green beans for extra flavor.
Serve warm as a side dish and enjoy!
Calories |
686 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 45.5 g | 58% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.1 g | 76% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 36 mg | 12% | |
| Sodium | 2122 mg | 92% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 43.5 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.6 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.9 g | ||
| Protein | 33.8 g | 68% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 860 mg | 66% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 1401 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.