Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Herb-Infused Red Potatoes and Crisp Green Beans?
It is a comforting side dish featuring tender red potato wedges and vibrant green beans tossed in a rich, herb-infused creamy sauce.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include four medium red potatoes, a 10-ounce package of frozen green beans, butter, flour, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme.
How long does it take to cook the red potatoes?
The red potato wedges should be boiled for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Should I use fresh or frozen green beans?
This specific recipe calls for one 10-ounce package of frozen green beans, cooked according to the package directions.
How do I make the creamy sauce?
The sauce is made by creating a roux with melted butter and flour, then whisking in salt, pepper, thyme, and milk until thickened.
What herb is used to infuse the sauce?
The recipe uses half a teaspoon of thyme to provide its signature herb-infused flavor.
How many calories are in a serving of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 93 calories.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
The dish contains about 4.3 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this potato and green bean dish?
There are 12.3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this side dish provide?
This recipe provides 2.2 grams of protein per serving.
Do I need to peel the red potatoes?
The recipe suggests cutting them into wedges; red potatoes are typically left unpeeled for texture and color, though you may peel them if preferred.
How long do the green beans take to cook?
The frozen green beans usually take about 4 to 6 minutes of boiling to reach the desired crisp-tender texture.
What is a roux and how is it used here?
A roux is a mixture of fat and flour. In this recipe, butter and flour are cooked for 1-2 minutes to serve as the thickening base for the milk sauce.
Can I use a different type of milk for the sauce?
Yes, while the recipe calls for standard milk, you can use whole milk for more richness or a dairy-free alternative, though the flavor may vary.
How do I ensure the sauce isn't lumpy?
To avoid lumps, slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking the butter and flour mixture.
Is this dish suitable for holiday gatherings?
Absolutely, its elegant presentation and comforting flavor make it an ideal side dish for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday meals.
Can I add more spices to the recipe?
Yes, while the recipe uses salt, pepper, and thyme, you can easily add garlic powder or paprika for extra depth.
How should I serve this dish?
It should be served immediately while warm, with the creamy sauce tossed gently over the potatoes and beans.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, if using fresh thyme, you may want to increase the amount slightly as dried herbs are generally more concentrated in flavor.
What size should I cut the red potatoes?
The recipe recommends cutting medium red potatoes into wedges for even cooking and a great look.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 8 ingredients required for this dish.
What makes the sauce 'herb-infused'?
The sauce becomes herb-infused by cooking the thyme directly into the roux and milk mixture.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Can I substitute the red potatoes with another variety?
While red potatoes are recommended for their texture, Yukon Gold potatoes would also work well in this creamy dish.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, there is no added sugar in this recipe.
How much butter is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of butter.
Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time?
Yes, you can boil the potatoes and beans in advance, but it is best to prepare the sauce and combine them just before serving for the best texture.
How much salt and pepper are used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
What is the texture of the green beans?
The recipe aims for 'crisp' green beans, achieved by boiling them for a short time (4-6 minutes).