Greek Fasolakia (Green Beans in Tomato Sauce)
Fasolakia is a beloved Greek comfort dish that transforms simple green beans into something deeply flavorful and satisfying. Slowly simmered in tomato sauce, olive oil, onions, and herbs, the beans become tender and infused with rich, savory sweetness. Humble yet nourishing, it’s a classic example of Greek home cooking at its best. Perfect served fresh from the oven with crusty bread and feta or enjoyed as leftovers the next day.
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Tips for Greek Fasolakia
Green Beans
I’ve tried this recipe with traditional green beans and French green beans. Traditional green beans are ideal for fasolakia because they hold their shape while becoming tender as they simmer. They absorb the tomato and olive oil beautifully without turning mushy. French green beans are thinner and cook more quickly, which can cause them to soften too much and lose that hearty, braised texture the dish is known for.
Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is essential here. It’s not just a cooking fat, but a primary flavor. As the vegetables slowly simmer, the olive oil emulsifies with the tomatoes and creates a rich, almost silky sauce. Using a good-quality EVOO gives the dish depth and that unmistakable Mediterranean character.
Let It Sit
Like many braised vegetable dishes, fasolakia tastes even better the next day. As it rests, the beans and potatoes continue to absorb the tomato, herbs, and olive oil, and the flavors meld together beautifully. Letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator deepens the richness and makes leftovers especially delicious. It’s the perfect dish to make ahead of time.
where’s the meat?
While fasolakia is traditionally enjoyed as a plant-based dish, you can easily turn it into a more substantial meal by adding tender chunks of beef and allowing them to soak up the sauce. The beef adds richness and depth while still letting the green beans shine. Check out the beef variation here.
Greek Fasolakia (Green Beans in Tomato Sauce)
Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 6 cloves of garlic minced
- 2 lbs green beans trimmed and washed
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 1½ cups water
- 3 medium potatoes peeled and quartered
- 1 tbsp salt
- ¾ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp dried oregano
Instructions
- Pre heat oven to 375º F convection (400℉ for a standard oven). *See Note 1.
- In a large roasting pan with a lid, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté your onion and garlic, stirring frequently.1 large onion, ½ cup olive oil, 6 cloves of garlic
- When the onion has just begun to soften, add the green beans to the pan. Stir well to coat the green beans in oil.2 lbs green beans
- Add the remaining ingredients. Stir well to combine.1 15-ounce can tomato sauce, 1 6-ounce can tomato paste, 1½ cups water, 3 medium potatoes, 1 tbsp salt, ¾ tsp ground black pepper, 2 tbsp dried oregano
- Cover the roasting pan, and place in the oven for approximately 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and stir. Return to oven for another 45-55 minutes or until green beans and potatoes are cooked to your liking.
