Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup onion , chopped
1 garlic clove , minced
1 lb fresh green beans , tips snapped off
1 cup diced tomato , canned ( drain and reserve 1/2 cup liquid )
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons fresh parsley , chopped
water , as needed
This Cretan Green Beans recipe is a classic Mediterranean side dish that is made with fresh green beans, diced canned tomatoes, tomato paste, onions, and fresh herbs. The recipe originated in Crete, Greece, and has been adapted over time to suit different tastes and preferences. The dish is usually served as a side dish to a main course, but it can also be enjoyed as a light lunch or dinner option. The green beans in the recipe make it an excellent source of fiber and other nutrients, while the tomato and olive oil used in the recipe provide heart-healthy benefits. The dish is also relatively easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Instructions

1.Heat the olive oil in a medium-size saucepan over medium-high heat.
2.Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the saucepan, and cook while stirring for 5 minutes until the onions are translucent.
3.Add in the fresh green beans and canned tomatoes along with the reserved liquid from the canned tomatoes.
4.Add the tomato paste, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano to the pot, and stir all of the ingredients together.
5.Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and cover.
6.Allow the green beans to simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7.Remove from heat, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

PROS

The Cretan Green Beans dish is packed with nutrients from the fresh green beans and tomato used in the recipe.

Healthy fats from the olive oil makes the dish heart-healthy.

This dish requires only a few ingredients and is relatively easy to make.

CONS

Green beans are known to cause flatulence (gas).

For some, the dish may be too acidic or too oregano-flavored.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Green beans are a great source of fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation. They are also low in calories and high in nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. Tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to reducing the risk of certain types of cancers and improving heart health. Olive oil is high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

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