Imagine transforming ordinary green beans into a Mediterranean masterpiece that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of Greece - all in just 15 minutes! This Instant Pot Greek Green Beans recipe is not just a side dish; it's a culinary adventure that combines the freshness of crisp green beans with the rich, aromatic flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and oregano. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick and healthy side or a food enthusiast craving authentic Greek cuisine, this recipe will revolutionize your dinner routine and impress everyone at the table.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and trim the green beans, removing any tough ends. Cut them into roughly 2-inch pieces if desired.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the Sauté mode. Add olive oil and allow it to heat for 30 seconds.
- Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and slightly softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, and sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Add the prepared green beans to the pot, gently stirring to combine with the tomato and onion mixture.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select Manual/Pressure Cook mode.
- Cook on high pressure for 3-4 minutes, depending on how tender you prefer your green beans.
- Once cooking is complete, do a quick release of the pressure to prevent overcooking.
- Open the lid, stir the green beans, and let them sit for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve hot as a side dish, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Tips
- Bean Selection: Choose fresh, firm green beans for the best texture and flavor. Avoid beans that look wilted or have brown spots.
- Cutting Technique: Trim the ends of the beans and cut them into uniform 2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Secret: Don't rush the onion and garlic sautéing process. Those 2-3 minutes develop a deep, rich flavor base for your dish.
- Pressure Cooking Precision: For crisp-tender beans, stick to 3 minutes of pressure cooking. If you prefer softer beans, go up to 4 minutes.
- Quick Release is Key: Use the quick release method to prevent overcooking and maintain the beans' vibrant color and texture.
- Flavor Boosters: For an extra Greek touch, consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or a few Kalamata olives before serving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These green beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
