| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins – 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 155 | 7g | 1g | 17g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 5g | 5g | 0.4g |
As a West Coast born foodie with Gujarati roots, I have a soft spot for recipes that intertwine my Indian heritage with the fresh produce of California. One such dish that I truly hold dear—both for its robust flavor and surprising health perks—is the Sautéed Runner Beans with Onions. This humble vegetable melody sings with the zing of lemon, the earthiness of garlic, and the understated sweetness of caramelized onions, creating a serenade of taste that makes your taste buds dance.
A Tale of Two Cultures, On a Plate
When I think about this recipe, I can’t help but reminisce about bountiful Californian farmers markets and my grandmother’s kitchen in Gujarat. The runner beans remind me of the fresh produce available in my home state while the onions, slow-cooked to perfection, evoke the intensity of Indian flavors. This isn’t just a plate of sautéed vegetables; it’s an amalgamation of my two worlds, each bite reminding me of home—both of them.
Perfect Pairings
Sautéed Runner Beans with Onions is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. As part of a traditional Indian meal, they stand up well to spicy Chicken Jalfrezi or a soul-satisfying Dal Makhani. This vegetable dish also compliments an American family barbecue, acting as a healthier, high fiber counterpart to grilled steak or burgers.
The Underrated Health Hero
Aside from its delightful taste, Sautéed Runner Beans with Onions is a powerhouse of nutrition. Runner beans are an excellent source of vitamins C and A, as well as iron. These magic green beans are also packed with dietary fiber, which aids digestion and contributes to a feeling of fullness, making this dish a hearty addition to any weight management plan.
So, whether you’re seeking a bridge between two diverse culinary worlds, a flexible side dish, or a nutrition-packed meal, I hope this recipe captivates you as it has me. Happy cooking!
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound of runner beans
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Trim the ends off the runner beans and then slice them diagonally into 2-inch pieces. Thinly slice the onions and mince the garlic.
Step Two
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions. Sauté until the onions are translucent and beginning to brown, which should take about 5 minutes.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the onions. Continue to sauté for another minute, or until the garlic is fragrant. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Step Four
Add the prepared runner beans to the skillet. Season with sea salt and black pepper, then stir to combine the beans with the onions and garlic. Continue to cook over medium heat until the beans are tender. This should take about 10-15 minutes, depending on the exact size of your bean pieces.
Step Five
Once the beans are tender, remove the skillet from heat. Drizzle the lemon juice over the bean mixture, then stir one final time to combine. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
Step Six
Your Sautéed Runner Beans with Onions is ready to be served. This dish makes a delicious side to any main course, or can also be enjoyed on its own for a light, healthy lunch. Enjoy!
