Fasolakia (Greek Green Beans)

Fasolakia, or Greek Green Beans, will make you wonder how simple green beans can be so wonderfully delicious. But believe me, this Greek recipe might change the way you think about this humble vegetable.

Known locally as Fasolakia Lathera, it is a delightful and comforting Greek dish that’s perfect for those who crave wholesome, home-cooked flavors. It combines green beans, olive oil, tomatoes and a variety of Mediterranean seasonings, creating a hearty and nutritious meal.

Often slow-simmered to allow the flavors to mingle, it showcases the culinary tradition of the region where fresh, seasonal ingredients take center stage.

I’ve been cooking Fasolakia for years, and always wanted to bring it to GypsyPlate. Finally, I’m very excited to tell you all about my favorite green bean recipe.

Here, green beans are allowed to braise in a delicious tomato mixture with loads of olive oil. Yes, this recipe calls for plenty of olive oil, in the spirit of Mediterranean style cooking.

The end result is almost magical, where green beans turn tender and velvety without turning mushy, soaking up amazing flavors from the sauce they’ve been stewing in.

You Will Love these Greek Green Beans for

• Flavorful Simplicity: This recipe turns basic ingredients like green beans, tomatoes, and olive oil into a mouthwatering dish.
• Nutrition: It aligns with the healthy principles of the Mediterranean diet, packed with vitamins and good fats.
• Versatility: Fasolakia works as a main or a side dish, fitting seamlessly into various meal plans.
• Vegetarian-Friendliness: A great option for those following plant-based diets, without sacrificing taste. You can make it completely vegan by omitting the feta garnish.
• Comforting Texture: This dish is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender vegetables that are comforting to eat.
• Cultural Connection: It provides a taste of traditional Greek home cooking, making it a great way to explore the authentic cuisine.

What is Fasolakia Lathera?

Fasolakia Lathera is a Greek green bean dish. Fasolakia translates to “green beans”, and Lathera refers to a cooking method.

Lathera style cooking is a cherished technique in Greek cuisine that focuses on the liberal use of olive oil. The literal translation of the the word Lathera means, “the ones with the oil.”

It often involves slow-cooking seasonal vegetables in generous amounts of olive oil, along with tomatoes and aromatic herbs, allowing them to become tender and richly flavored.

Olive oil, lovingly called “liquid gold” in Greece, has a special place in both the kitchen and culture. In cooking, it’s a favorite for adding rich flavor to dishes. People also love it for its many health benefits.

By highlighting olive oil’s rich flavor, Lathera cooking brings out the essence of Greek home cooking, making even the most ordinary vegetables a gastronomic delight.

We have some great recipes like Fasolada and Psari Plaki that are great examples of how ample olive oil creates amazing flavors.

Fasolakia Ingredients

• Fresh Green Beans – The star of the show, green beans become tender and velvety, soaking up all the flavors.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The heart of this dish, it adds a rich and authentic Mediterranean flavor. Please, use a good quality EVOO here.
• Red Onion & Garlic – These add sweet and aromatic elements to the dish.
• Tomato Paste & Whole Tomatoes – Creating the savory and tangy base, tomatoes bring out the comforting essence of the stew.
• Potatoes – They add a hearty and filling texture.
• Spices – Cumin, oregano, red chili flakes, salt and pepper.
• Fresh Parsley – A touch of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Water – Helps create the right consistency, making it as soupy or thick as you like.
• Feta Cheese – For garnish, it adds a tangy richness that pairs wonderfully with Fasolakia .

Fasolakia Lathera Recipe

1. Cook onion and garlic: In a large dutch oven, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced red onion and cook for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the sliced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

2. Mix in potatoes: Add the potatoes and mix well. Cover, and cook for 5-6 minutes.

3. Create the sauce: Mix in the tomato paste and cook for a minute, stirring well. By hand, crush the whole tomatoes along with their juices and add to the pan. Stir in cumin, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.

4. Cook the green beans: Mix in the green beans, parsley and water. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until green beans are cooked to your preference. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of water if needed, or simmering without the lid to thicken.

While it’s cooking, check out our collection of favorite Green Bean Recipes.

5. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust for salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, drizzle with more extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with feta cheese (DO NOT SKIP FETA!) Serve with plenty of crusty bread.

Tips and Tricks for BEST Fasolakia

• Quality Olive Oil: Using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil can make a big difference. It’s the base of this dish, so choose one with a flavor you love.
• Fresh Green Beans: Use fresh green beans that are firm and bright green.
• Cooking Potatoes: If using larger potatoes, ensure they are cut into even-sized pieces so they cook uniformly.
• Crushing Canned Whole Tomatoes: Canned whole tomatoes are so much better than diced tomatoes. Crushing the canned whole tomatoes by hand allows for a more rustic texture, enhancing the homemade feel of the dish.
• Adjusting Liquid: Keep an eye on the liquid level as the dish simmers. If it’s drying out, add a splash of water. If too saucy, let it simmer uncovered to thicken to your liking.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the salt and spices to your preference during cooking.
• Doneness of Green Beans: Cook the green beans to your preferred level of tenderness. Some like them softer, while others prefer a bit of a bite.
• Serving Suggestions: Don’t skip the finishing touches of fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. These elevate the dish to something extraordinary.

Serving Suggestions

A side of warm, crusty bread like a baguette or artisan loaf is perfect for soaking up the flavorful olive oil-based sauce. Our No Knead Bread is just perfect!!

If you prefer a more substantial meal, serve Fasolakia over cooked rice or orzo pasta. Our Greek Lemon Rice goes very well.

For a complete Greek meal, pair it with grilled lamb, chicken, or fish. Or go all out and try Lamb Kleftiko for Greek feast.

A refreshing Greek Salad (Horiatiki) on the side can balance the richness of the dish and add a crisp texture.

Fasolakia is also great as part of a Mezze Spread. Include it with other dishes like Hummus, Tzatziki, Melitzanosalata, Keftedes and Falafel for an impressive party platter.

Possible Greek Green Beans Variations

• Add other Veggies: We make this all the time. One time we didn’t have potatoes so added green peas along with the beans and it was fabulous. Try carrots, bell peppers, zucchini in the mix too.
• Vegan Version: Omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative to make the dish suitable for vegans.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or a touch of cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
• Use Fresh Tomatoes: Instead of canned tomatoes, use fresh, ripe tomatoes during the summer season for an even fresher taste.
• Add Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice can add a zesty brightness that complements the rich olive oil.
• Wine-infused Sauce: Replace some of the water with red wine for a more complex and elegant sauce.

Leftovers and Storing

Fasolakia is great as leftovers the next day as all the flavors get time to meld together. You can make a big batch and store the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Reheat it using the microwave, or in a small pan over medium low heat.

More Tasty Greek Dishes

Shrimp Saganaki
Chicken Souvlaki
Avgolemono Soup
Steak Gyros
Chicken Gyros
Soutzoukakia
Moussaka

Fasolakia is a simple and wholesome meal that’s loved in Greek households, and showcases the fresh and tasty ingredients of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re a fan of Greek cuisine or trying it for the first time, Fasolakia Lathera will win your hearts in no time.

Find out how the humble green bean can become a star in your kitchen, and get ready for some serious compliments.

Fasolakia Lathera, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!