If you have ever wished for a comforting, wholesome dish that bursts with bright, fresh flavors yet feels like a warm hug, then Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe is exactly what you need. This vibrant medley of tender green beans, stewed to perfection with tomatoes, potatoes, aromatic herbs, and a subtle hint of cinnamon, captures the essence of Greek home cooking in every bite. Whether served as a satisfying main or a delightful side, this classic recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a soul-nourishing experience that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient contributes to the final dish’s harmony of taste and texture. Every component plays a vital role: the fresh green beans offer a crisp tender bite, tomatoes bring acidity and richness, while the potatoes add comforting creaminess. The herbs and spices elevate these humble ingredients into something truly memorable.
- 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans (trimmed): Choose crisp, bright green beans for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped): Adds a sweet, aromatic base that softens beautifully as it cooks.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with savory depth and a gentle kick.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice: These bring juiciness and a vibrant tomato tang that defines the sauce.
- ¼ cup olive oil: A generous drizzle of high-quality olive oil enriches the flavor and helps meld all ingredients.
- ½ cup water: Essential for simmering and making sure the beans cook evenly.
- 2 medium potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks): Creates a soft, creamy texture that balances the slightly firm beans.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that adds earthy warmth.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Just a pinch adds an exotic hint of spice, transforming the dish subtly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season and highlight all the fresh ingredients perfectly.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of bright green color and fresh herbal notes when serving.
How to Make Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the finely chopped onion and cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step is crucial for building the flavorful foundation of your Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release its fragrant aroma without letting it burn.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
Add the fresh green beans, diced tomatoes including their juice, and chunks of potato to the pot. Pour in the half cup of water, then sprinkle in the dried oregano and ground cinnamon if you are using it. Season generously with salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors. Stir everything together well so each piece is coated with the aromatic olive oil and herbs.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cover the pot to create a cozy steaming environment. Let the vegetables simmer for 40 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the green beans to become tender and the potatoes soft enough to melt slightly into the sauce. The cooking process transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, thickened medley that is genuinely comforting.
Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serve
Once the green beans and potatoes are perfectly tender and the sauce thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This final tweaking makes all the difference. Remove from heat and get ready to enjoy your homemade Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe, either warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh, colorful finish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving. The parsley not only adds a lively green pop but also imparts a refreshing herbal brightness that balances the dish’s rich tomato base perfectly.
Side Dishes
Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe is versatile enough to accompany a variety of meals. It pairs beautifully with crusty rustic bread to scoop up every last bit of the sauce. Crumbled feta cheese on the side provides a creamy, salty contrast that elevates the whole meal. It also complements grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a simple Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, serve Fasolakia in individual shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch. Alternatively, layer the green beans mixture over creamy polenta or quinoa for a breakfast or brunch option that’s bursting with flavor and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container and you’ll find the flavors actually deepen and improve overnight. This makes it an excellent meal prep dish that tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this classic Greek recipe at a later time, Fasolakia freezes beautifully. Allow the dish to cool completely, transfer portions to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to retain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your Fasolakia gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen it. It also reheats well in a microwave—just cover loosely and heat in bursts, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
What makes Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe special?
It’s the combination of fresh green beans slowly simmered with tomatoes, potatoes, and herbs that creates a deeply comforting dish full of layered flavors. The subtle touch of cinnamon adds a unique Greek twist that distinguishes it from other stewed green bean recipes.
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
While fresh green beans are ideal for their texture and flavor, frozen can be used in a pinch. Just reduce the cooking time slightly since frozen beans are often partially cooked before freezing.
Is Fasolakia a vegan recipe?
Yes! Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences without any substitutions needed.
How do I adjust the flavors to suit my taste?
Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices—more oregano for earthiness, less cinnamon if you prefer milder flavors, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Season well with salt and pepper at the end to balance everything perfectly.
Can I add protein to make this a main dish?
Absolutely! Adding cooked chickpeas, white beans, or even cubes of firm tofu can boost its protein content and turn Fasolakia into a hearty, satisfying main course.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about cooking and sharing Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe. It’s a humble dish that offers so much warmth, flavor, and history with every forkful. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether you are looking for a vibrant vegetarian main or a standout side dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen. Once you’ve made it, I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your family too.
Print
Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
Fasolakia is a traditional Greek dish featuring tender green beans and potatoes stewed in a flavorful tomato sauce with garlic, onion, and aromatic herbs. This vegan and gluten-free recipe is a comforting, healthy side or main course perfect for Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Liquids & Sauces
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup water
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Onion: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the green beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, potato chunks, water, dried oregano, cinnamon if using, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 40–45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, until the green beans and potatoes are very tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- This dish can be served as a satisfying vegetarian main or a flavorful side dish alongside crusty bread and feta cheese for extra richness.
- Fasolakia tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. You can make it ahead and refrigerate.
- For a thicker sauce, you can simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce liquid further.
