Spaghetti with Green Beans

paghetti with Green Beans is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the freshness of green beans combined with the comforting taste of pasta. This Italian-inspired meal is light, nutritious, and perfect for a quick dinner or a relaxed lunch. It requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spaghetti with Green Beans is an excellent choice for those who appreciate uncomplicated meals made with wholesome ingredients. It is easy to prepare, requiring just a few pantry staples, and it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The tender green beans add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to the dish, creating a visually appealing and satisfying meal. Additionally, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghetti
green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
olive oil
garlic cloves, minced
salt
black pepper
Parmesan cheese (optional)
red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the green beans to the boiling water and cook for 3–4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
3. Remove the green beans with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In the same pot of boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
5. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
7. Add the cooked green beans to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and toss to combine.
8. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water.
9. Add the spaghetti to the skillet with the green beans. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
10. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.
11. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color.
• Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.
• Replace Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese to make it vegan.
• Incorporate a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for best texture, but if necessary, microwave on medium power, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

What type of green beans should I use for this recipe?

You can use regular green beans, French green beans (haricots verts), or even frozen green beans if fresh ones are not available.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the regular spaghetti with a gluten-free version.

Is it necessary to blanch the green beans before sautéing?

Blanching ensures the green beans are tender yet still crisp, making it a recommended step.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely, vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers pair nicely with the flavors.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor with additional herbs like basil or oregano and a sprinkle of lemon zest.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative can be used if you prefer a dairy-free option.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?

Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while boiling and toss it immediately with the olive oil and green beans.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can cook the pasta and green beans ahead of time and quickly reheat them with the olive oil and garlic when ready to serve.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Keep the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within three days for optimal freshness.

How can I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat gently in a skillet with a bit of water or olive oil to maintain moisture and texture.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with Green Beans is a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor. With its easy preparation and versatile nature, it is a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Whether enjoyed as a light vegetarian meal or customized with your favorite proteins and vegetables, this dish offers a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.

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