Greek-Style Green Beans (Fasolakia Lathera)

Short description

Fasolakia Lathera is a traditional Greek dish of fresh green beans gently stewed with onion, garlic, ripe tomatoes, and generous extra-virgin olive oil until meltingly tender and coated in a silky, herb-infused sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delivers deep, slow-cooked flavor from everyday pantry ingredients.

• Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.

• Equally delicious warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for make-ahead meals and potlucks.

• Pairs effortlessly with crusty bread, grilled meats, or tangy feta for a balanced Mediterranean spread.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Green beans, ends trimmed (flat Romano beans or standard French beans)

• Extra-virgin olive oil

• Yellow onion, finely diced

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Ripe tomatoes, grated or chopped (or crushed canned tomatoes)

• Potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional but traditional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Pinch of sugar (balances acidity; optional)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Hot water or vegetable stock (as needed)

directions

1. Warm the olive oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the onion; sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. If using potatoes, add them now; toss to coat in the oil and aromatics for 2 minutes.

4. Add the green beans and mix well.

5. Pour in the tomatoes, parsley, and sugar. Season generously with salt and pepper.

6. Add just enough hot water or stock to reach halfway up the beans. Bring to a gentle simmer.

7. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans (and potatoes) are very tender and the sauce has thickened. Add a splash of water if the pot becomes too dry.

8. Taste, adjust seasoning, and let the dish rest 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

• Yield: Serves 4 as a side dish or 2 as a light main course

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 40 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• No-potato version Omit the potatoes for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate plate.

• Herb twist Finish with fresh dill or mint for a brighter profile.

• Spicy kick Add a pinch of dried red-pepper flakes during the simmer.

• Slow-cooker method After the initial sauté of onion and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on Low for 4 hours.

• Winter shortcut Substitute good-quality canned crushed tomatoes when fresh are out of season.

storage/reheating

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a tablespoon of water as needed. The flavors deepen overnight, so the dish often tastes even better the next day.

FAQs

What type of green beans work best?

Flat Romano beans are most authentic, but any fresh green bean will become beautifully tender in the sauce.

Can frozen green beans be used?

Yes. Thaw, drain well, and proceed; cooking time may shorten by 5–10 minutes.

Why so much olive oil?

“Lathera” means “oil-based.” The generous oil creates a velvety emulsion with the tomato, giving the dish its characteristic richness.

May I skip the sugar?

Certainly. It simply softens tomato acidity; omit it for a purely savory profile.

Is this dish vegan?

Completely. It contains only vegetables, herbs, and olive oil.

How do I prevent watery sauce?

Keep the liquid level low at the start, then simmer uncovered for the final 5 minutes if extra reduction is needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes—use a wider pot so the beans cook in a shallow layer; extend simmer time slightly until tender.

What should I serve alongside?

Serve with crusty bread, lemon wedges, and optional feta or olives for a classic Greek table.

Does it freeze well?

It can be frozen for up to two months, though the beans soften further upon thawing; cool completely before packing.

How can I add protein?

Stir in cooked chickpeas or serve the beans alongside grilled chicken, fish, or halloumi.

Conclusion

Greek-style green beans exemplify the elegance of humble ingredients transformed by slow cooking and fine olive oil. Simple yet sumptuous, this versatile dish offers wholesome comfort any time of year—perfect on its own or as a vibrant component of a larger Mediterranean meal

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