Fasolakia (Greek Green Beans)

Fasolakia are Greek green beans stewed with olive oil and tomato, with a few pieces of potato added for good measure. This is a main dish in Greece, not a side dish, and a prime example of plant-based eating! Good crusty bread is essential for mopping up the sauce and I always need to have a healthy chunk of feta on the side. Serve fasolakia warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Calories: 289 Calories

Ingredients

• water to cover
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ground black pepper to taste
• 1 small onion, grated
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 pinch white sugar (Optional)
• 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 yellow potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and stir in onion. Cook until onion has softened, about 5 minutes. Add green beans and stir to coat in the oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, 2 to 3 minutes. Add pureed tomato, potatoes, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well, then add water until beans are barely covered.

Step 2

Bring to a simmer, partially cover with a lid, and cook gently over medium-low heat until green beans and potatoes are soft, 25 to 30 minutes. Uncover towards the end of cooking to reduce sauce if it is too watery.