Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sautéed Green Beans with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes?
It is a vibrant side dish featuring fresh green beans and cherry tomatoes sautéed with butter, garlic salt, sugar, and basil.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients: green beans, butter, garlic salt, sugar, dried basil, salt, pepper, and cherry tomatoes.
How much green beans should I use?
The recipe calls for 1.5 pounds of green beans.
How long do I boil the green beans?
Boil the trimmed green beans for 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
What type of butter is recommended?
The recipe suggests using one tablespoon of unsalted butter.
How do I prepare the cherry tomatoes?
You should use a half pint of cherry tomatoes and cut them in half before sautéing.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, while the recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil, you can substitute with fresh basil for a brighter flavor.
What heat setting should I use for the skillet?
The butter and seasonings should be melted and mixed over medium heat.
How long do the tomatoes need to sauté?
Sauté the halved cherry tomatoes for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are warm and slightly softened.
Is there sugar in this green bean recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 tablespoon of sugar to highlight the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
How much garlic salt is required?
The recipe uses 3/4 teaspoon of garlic salt, or you can adjust to taste.
Should the tomatoes be mushy?
No, the instructions state to sauté them until softened but not mushy.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this vegan by substituting the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed (vegetables, butter, spices, sugar) are naturally gluten-free.
What is the final step in the cooking process?
Incorporate the green beans into the skillet, toss to coat, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to let flavors meld.
How do I season the dish at the end?
Taste the dish and add additional salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Is this a good dish for meal prep?
Yes, it is a quick and healthy side dish that can be made in about 20 minutes.
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, grape tomatoes are a perfect substitute and should also be halved.
How should the green beans be trimmed?
The ends of the green beans should be removed before boiling.
What occasions is this dish suitable for?
It is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or potlucks.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, though you may need to adjust the boiling time as frozen beans often soften faster than fresh ones.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Toasted almonds or pecans would make a great addition for extra texture and crunch.
What if I don't have garlic salt?
You can use a combination of garlic powder and regular salt as a substitute.
Should the green beans be drained?
Yes, after boiling for 5 to 7 minutes, you must drain the green beans before adding them to the skillet.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
While fresh cherry tomatoes provide the best texture, drained canned diced tomatoes can be used in a pinch.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
This dish is best served warm immediately after sautéing.
Can I add onion to this recipe?
Yes, sautéing some sliced shallots or red onion with the butter would add another layer of flavor.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on 1.5 lbs of green beans, this typically serves 4 to 6 people as a side dish.
What meat goes well with these green beans?
This side dish pairs excellently with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon.