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Green Beans and Potatoes: A Simple, Comforting Side Dish
When it comes to classic, comforting side dishes, Green Beans and Potatoes is one that never fails to deliver. This dish combines the freshness of green beans with the heartiness of potatoes in a simple yet flavorful way. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any time you’re in need of an easy, satisfying side, this recipe is a go-to that’s both delicious and nutritious.
This humble dish offers a perfect balance of flavors: the crisp-tender green beans and the creamy potatoes come together in a delicious harmony. Let’s dive into why Green Beans and Potatoes is a timeless favorite and how you can easily make it at home.
Why You’ll Love Green Beans and Potatoes
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is simple to make but incredibly flavorful.
- Versatile: Green Beans and Potatoes complement just about any main dish, whether it’s roasted chicken, grilled steak, or fish. It’s also a great side for holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Nutritious and Wholesome: This dish is full of fresh vegetables, offering a healthy addition to your meal. The potatoes provide fiber and vitamins, while green beans are low in calories and high in nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate.
- Comforting and Satisfying: There’s something so comforting about the combination of potatoes and green beans. It’s the kind of side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients for Green Beans and Potatoes
To make this easy and flavorful side dish, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes (Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for extra richness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Green Beans and Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Then cut them into cubes, about 1-inch in size, to ensure they cook evenly. Set the potatoes aside.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to get them slightly golden on the outside. The goal is to get the potatoes to soften up a little before adding the green beans.
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
Once the potatoes are slightly golden, add the green beans to the pan with the potatoes. Stir them together so the green beans are coated with the oil and combined with the potatoes.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Broth
Sprinkle the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables. Add the garlic (if using) and stir everything together to combine. Then pour in the broth (or water), covering the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook
Cover the pan with a lid and allow the potatoes and green beans to cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until both are tender and cooked through. You may need to check occasionally to make sure there’s enough liquid in the pan. If the brot
