Turkish Green Beans in Olive Oil (Zeytinyağlı)

Zeytinyağlı Fasulye (Turkish green beans in olive oil) is a traditional Turkish dish that is simple yet full of flavor. The green beans are cooked in olive oil with tomatoes, onions, and a touch of garlic, creating a fresh, light, and savory dish. This vegan dish is typically served as a side dish or a main course, perfect for warm weather or alongside rice or bread.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balancing the acidity of tomatoes)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Trim the ends of the green beans and cut them into 2-3 inch pieces if desired. You can leave them whole for a more rustic look or cut them into smaller pieces for easier serving.

Why it works: Cutting the beans into smaller pieces ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the olive oil and tomato sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Why it works: Sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil creates a savory base for the green beans and helps develop a rich flavor from the beginning.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Add the sugar (if using) and dried oregano, then cook for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and create a sauce.

Why it works: The tomatoes and tomato paste create a rich, flavorful sauce that infuses the green beans as they cook. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 4: Cook the Green Beans

Add the green beans to the pot and stir to combine with the tomato mixture. Add 1/2 cup of water, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Why it works: Slow cooking the green beans in the tomato sauce allows them to absorb all the savory flavors, making them tender and aromatic.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the green beans are cooked, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with rice or bread for a complete meal.

Why it works: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbal note to balance the richness of the olive oil and tomato sauce.

Final Thoughts: A Flavorful Turkish Classic

Zeytinyağlı Fasulye (Turkish green beans in olive oil) is a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of Turkish cuisine—fresh ingredients, olive oil, and fragrant herbs. It’s perfect as a side dish or as a light, healthy main course.