Fresh Tomato, Green Bean, and Potato Skillet with Pecorino

Fresh Tomato, Green Bean, and Potato Skillet with Pecorino

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 garlic cloves, minced or thinly sliced

5 to 6 fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped

or 1 can crushed tomatoes, 28 oz, if fresh tomatoes are not available

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut in half

4 medium potatoes, cut into large chunks

1/2 cup water or vegetable broth, plus more as needed

1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

8 to 10 fresh basil leaves, torn

1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus more for serving

Extra olive oil, for finishing

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.

Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.

Add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the pan. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and let the tomatoes cook down for 10 to 15 minutes, until they soften and release their juices.

Add the potato chunks and stir them into the tomato sauce. Pour in the water or broth, then cover the pan and let the potatoes simmer for about 15 minutes.

Add the fresh green beans and stir everything together. Cover again and continue cooking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the green beans are cooked but still slightly firm.

If the sauce becomes too thick while cooking, add a little more water or broth. If it is too watery, simmer uncovered for a few minutes until the sauce reduces.

Stir in the fresh basil near the end of cooking so it keeps its bright flavor.

Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

Sprinkle the Pecorino Romano cheese over the hot vegetables and let it melt slightly into the tomato sauce.

Finish with a drizzle of olive oil, more Pecorino cheese, and extra black pepper.

Serve warm with crusty bread, pasta, rice, or as a hearty vegetable side dish.

Notes

This dish should be rustic, saucy, and full of fresh tomato flavor. The potatoes should be tender, the green beans should stay bright and slightly firm, and the Pecorino should add a salty, savory finish.

For a more Italian-style meal, serve it with toasted bread and extra grated Pecorino on the side. The bread is perfect for soaking up the tomato, garlic, basil, and olive oil sauce.

You can also make this dish heartier by adding white beans, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken.