Potatoes and Green Beans make a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. This dish is comforting, full of flavor, and easy to make. You can cook the potatoes and green beans together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld and make a satisfying side that’s great for family dinners or holiday meals.
Here’s a basic recipe for Potatoes and Green Beans:
Potatoes and Green Beans
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (Yukon gold or russet potatoes work well)
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into 1-inch cubes.
- Trim the green beans and cut them into 2-inch pieces.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and soften.
3. Add the Green Beans:
- Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet with the potatoes. Stir to combine.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Simmer with Broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until both the potatoes are tender and the green beans are cooked through. Stir occasionally and check if you need to add a little more broth or water to prevent sticking.
5. Finish and Serve:
- Once the potatoes are tender and the green beans are bright and tender, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for Success:
- Potato Variations: You can use other types of potatoes, like red potatoes, which hold their shape better and give the dish a different texture.
- Flavor Additions: Feel free to add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Herb Variations: You can use other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil to switch up the flavor profile.
- Cooking Tip: If you want to make the dish extra creamy, add a dollop of sour cream or a little bit of heavy cream at the end.
Enjoy!
This Potatoes and Green Beans dish is a simple, nutritious, and comforting side dish that complements any meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings!