Greek Green Beans in Tomato Sauce (Fasolakia)

A traditional Greek recipe that is healthy, comforting, and full of flavor — perfect for vegetarians and lovers of Mediterranean cuisine alike!

Fasolakia is a classic Greek “ladera” dish made with green beans slowly cooked in a rich tomato sauce with olive oil, onions, and herbs. Simple yet incredibly flavorful, it’s one of the staples of Greek home cooking, especially during the summer when fresh green beans are in season (though frozen beans work well year-round too). Served warm or at room temperature with feta cheese and crusty bread, it’s a wholesome everyday meal enjoyed across Greece.

Ingredients

• 500g (1 lb) green beans, trimmed
• 3 fresh onions (or 1 dried onion), chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400g (14 oz) canned tomatoes, crushed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 zicchini, sliced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• ½ cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of water or broth

Procedure

1. Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic towards the end to avoid burning it.
2. Add the green beans, carrots, zucchini, and potatoes. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, parsley, and water (or broth). Stir to combine. Cover and simmer on low heat for 40–50 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. For a faster version, use a pressure cooker (about 10 minutes).
4. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary.

Serving Tips & Variations

Serve with feta cheese, Greek olives and crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier version, some Greeks add pieces of chicken or lamb, although the traditional dish remains vegetarian. Fresh green beans should snap easily when broken by hand—this ensures they’re crunchy and in their prime.

[ Originally published on 5/27/13 10:43 PM and updated on 26/02/2025]