Fasolakia (Green Beans in Tomato Sauce)

Seriously Simple Green Beans: A Fascinating Greek Dish with a Rich Backstory

Step into the kitchens of bustling Athenian homes and cozy tavernas where Fasolakia, an unassuming yet delectable dish of green beans swathed in a rich tomato sauce, reigns supreme. This humble culinary creation, rooted in the culinary traditions of Greece, holds a captivating story that weaves through centuries of Mediterranean history. Join us on a gastronomic journey as we delve into the origins, techniques, and captivating flavors of Fasolakia, a dish that embodies the essence of Greek home cooking.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound green beans, trimmed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Place green beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook for 10 minutes, or until browned and tender.
4. Remove green beans from air fryer and set aside.
5. Add onion and garlic to the air fryer basket and cook for 2 minutes, or until softened.
6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt and pepper.
7. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
8. Add green beans back to the air fryer basket and toss to coat in sauce.
9. Cook for 5 minutes more, or until heated through.

Why It Works

• The air fryer's intense heat and rapid air circulation create perfectly tender-crisp green beans in a fraction of the time it takes to boil or steam them.
• Using crushed tomatoes instead of whole tomatoes ensures a smooth, velvety sauce that evenly coats the green beans.
• A combination of dried oregano and basil infuses the sauce with a distinctly Mediterranean flavor profile.
• A touch of chicken broth adds depth and umami to the sauce, elevating it beyond a simple tomato sauce.