Italian-style green beans and potatoes with garlic

This Italian-style dish combines tender green beans and hearty potatoes sautéed with garlic for a simple yet flavorful side. It's perfect for enhancing any meal with its fresh, rich taste.

25 Nov 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup olive oil
4.50 cups green beans
5 potatoes
3 garlic cloves
Italian-style green beans and potatoes with garlic

Italian-style green beans and potatoes with garlic is a delightful and simple dish that combines the fresh flavors of green beans with the heartiness of potatoes, all enhanced with the rich aroma of garlic. This recipe is both nutritious and flavorful, making it a perfect side dish or a light main course.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold running water. Trim the ends and cut the green beans into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 2 inches long.
- Peel the potatoes if you prefer (leaving the skin on is also a good option for added texture and nutrition). Cut the potatoes into bite-sized cubes, about 1 inch in size.
- Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves.
2. Cooking the Potatoes:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water.
- Carefully add the cubed potatoes to the boiling water and cook them until they are tender but still firm, about 10-12 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork, but they should not be falling apart.
- Once the potatoes are done, drain them in a colander and set them aside.
3. Cooking the Green Beans:
- While the potatoes are cooking, bring another pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
- Add the green beans to the boiling water and cook them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp.
- Drain the green beans and immediately run them under cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant green color.
4. Sautéing:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped garlic to the heated oil and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
- Add the cooked potatoes and green beans to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are well coated with the garlic-infused olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. You may also add the optional lemon zest and juice for an extra burst of freshness. Stir well to combine.
5. Finishing:
- Allow the vegetables to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
6. Serving:
- Transfer the Italian-style green beans and potatoes to a serving dish.
- Serve hot as a side dish to your favorite main course or enjoy it on its own as a light, flavorful meal.

Italian-style green beans and potatoes with garlic is a straightforward yet flavorful dish that brings the taste of Italy to your table. With its blend of fresh vegetables and aromatic garlic, it will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Serve it alongside your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own for a wholesome meal.

Italian-style green beans and potatoes with garlic FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover Italian-style green beans and potatoes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking.

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various types of potatoes such as Yukon gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes, though cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I know when the potatoes and green beans are cooked properly?

Potatoes should be tender but firm when pierced with a fork, typically after 10-12 minutes. Green beans should be bright in color and tender-crisp after 4-5 minutes of boiling.

What can I substitute for olive oil in this recipe?

You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter as substitutes, but the flavor may change slightly. Olive oil is recommended for its rich taste.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any optional additions, like lemon zest, are also plant-based.

Tips:

- Choose fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture; they should be vibrant green and crisp.

- Cut the potatoes into even-sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly.

- Do not overcook the green beans to maintain their bright color and slight crunch.

- Feel free to add your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for additional flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 200kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 8g
Sugar 5g
Fat 18g

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