Meatless Monday: Fresh green bean stew

When someone mentions stew, many of us automatically think of the traditional beef stew variety. When you're thinking about meatless meals, especially if you're new to meat-free options, you might think stew is off limits. But never fear! Fresh green bean stew is here!

You can have stew and go meatless, too!

Looking for a hearty meal? Think stew!

On a cold night, stew is a go-to for many meals. If you've never tried a green bean stew and you're looking for meatless meal options, this could be right up your alley. This stew recipe is quick to make and the addition of green beans makes it seem like spring is right around the corner!

The goods on green beans

Green beans are available year-round and they're fat-free, sodium-free and cholesterol-free! They're high in fiber (which helps you to feel full and satisfied and keep you from overeating) and vitamin C. According to Meatless Monday, eliminating meat from your meals once a week may reduce your risk of preventable conditions like cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. It can also help reduce your carbon footprint and save precious resources like fresh water and fossil fuel.

If you're new to Meatless Mondays, think about the experience as way to try new recipes, flavors, textures and foods! This fresh green bean stew recipe can be a start in the right direction!

Serve this dish with crunchy bread, an assortment of cheese and maybe even a nice glass of wine. Can you think of a more appealing dinner?

Fresh green bean stew recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 6 cups young green beans
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 onions, finely diced
• 12 ounces fresh plum tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika (add a bit for garnish)
• 6 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (reserve a bit for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Trim the beans and cut them into 1-1/2-inches in length. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the beans to the boiling water. Allow to boil for a minute, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until soft (about five minutes), drain and set aside but keep them warm.
2. In a large sauté pan over high heat, add the olive oil, and then the onions, stirring constantly. Cook until they turn a light golden color. Add the tomatoes and paprika to the onions and mix well.
3. Stir the green beans into the onion mix and simmer with the lid on for about 12-15 minutes. Stir in the garlic and parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish individual bowls with the reserved parsley and a bit of the paprika.

Going meatless can help you think outside the mainstream-meal box!

More Meatless Monday meals

Meatless Monday Mediterranean style
Mushroom stroganoff
Orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe