Flat Green Beans in Tomato Sauce Recipe (Piattoni al Pomodoro)
Category: Side Dishes
Serves: 4
This delightful side dish combines tender flat green beans with a rich tomato sauce, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses. Its simplicity highlights the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flat green beans (piattoni) | 400g |
| Ripe tomatoes | 2 |
| Red onion | ยฝ |
| Tomato puree (passata) | 70g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Carbohydrates | ~15g |
| Fats | ~6g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~150mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Start by making a shallow cross-shaped incision at the base of each tomato.
- Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for about 1 minute.
- Drain and transfer the tomatoes to a bowl filled with cold water to cool quickly. This makes peeling them easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Flat Green Beans
- Rinse the flat green beans thoroughly under cold running water.
- Trim off both ends of the beans and cut them diagonally into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Peel and Seed the Tomatoes
- Once the tomatoes have cooled, peel them by pulling the skin away from the incisions made earlier.
- Cut the peeled tomatoes into wedges and remove the seeds and watery core, leaving only the firm flesh.
Step 4: Cook the Onion
- Peel and thinly slice the red onion.
- Heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over low heat.
- Add the sliced onion and cook gently for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
- Add the prepared tomato wedges to the pan with the onion. Stir and let them cook for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.
- Next, add the flat green beans and mix well to coat them in the tomato and onion mixture.
Step 6: Add Water and Simmer
- Pour in about 2 ladles of hot water to help the beans cook evenly. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Cover the pan and let the beans simmer gently over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes.
Step 7: Add the Tomato Puree
- After 10 minutes, add the tomato puree to the pan. Stir to distribute it evenly.
- Continue cooking uncovered for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the beans.
Step 8: Adjust Seasonings and Serve
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and a touch of freshly ground black pepper if needed.
- Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil for added richness and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Flat green beans in tomato sauce pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even a simple loaf of crusty bread for mopping up the savory sauce. This versatile dish also works as a light vegetarian main when paired with a hearty grain like quinoa or couscous.
Enjoy this flavorful and comforting side dish, and bring a touch of Italian simplicity to your table!
