Name: Fasolakia – Greek Green Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped; 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 white onion, diced; 220g green beans, trimmed; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 400g chopped or crushed tomatoes; 1 tbsp light brown sugar; Salt and pepper, to taste; 20g fresh parsley, chopped; 100g crumbled feta, to top (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and wholesome: A warm, nourishing dish full of flavor.
Naturally vegetarian and easily made vegan.
Versatile: Enjoy as a main or a side dish.
Rich in flavor thanks to slow simmering in tomato and olive oil sauce.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 medium potatoes
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 white onion, diced
220g green beans
1 tbsp tomato paste
400g chopped or crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp light brown sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
20g fresh parsley, chopped
100g crumbled feta, to top (optional)

Directions

Prep the vegetables: Peel and chop the potatoes. Dice the onion and chop the parsley.
Sauté the base: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large pan. Add the onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until soft and slightly golden.
Cook the potatoes: Add the chopped potatoes and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
Build the sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Simmer the stew: Add green beans and most of the parsley. Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
Serve: Spoon into bowls and top with crumbled feta, remaining parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Without potatoes: For a lighter version, omit the potatoes.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
Vegan version: Omit the feta or use vegan feta.

Storage/Reheating

Store: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: On the stove with a splash of water or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, though fresh provides the best texture. Add frozen beans directly to the sauce.

Is tomato paste necessary?

It deepens the flavor, but you can use extra crushed tomatoes as a substitute.

Should I serve this hot or cold?

Traditionally, it’s served warm or at room temperature.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely, and it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.

Conclusion

Fasolakia is a deliciously simple and nourishing Greek dish perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal. With its rustic charm and rich tomato flavor, it’s a comforting way to enjoy green beans and potatoes any time of year. Serve with crusty bread or your favorite grain for a satisfying, wholesome meal.