Name: Instant Pot Green Beans with Potatoes and Basil
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: GreekEurope
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil , plus extra for drizzling; 1 onion, chopped fine; 2 tablespoons minced fresh oregano or 2 teaspoons dried; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 4 garlic cloves , minced; 1 (14.5-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes , drained with juice reserved, chopped; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon table salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 1½ pounds green beans , trimmed and cut into 2-inch lengths; 1 pound Yukon gold potato , peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley; 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts; Shaved Parmesan cheese

Why This Recipe Works

Unlike crisp-tender green beans that have been steamed or sautéed, Greece's traditional braised green beans boast a uniquely soft texture without being mushy. Unfortunately, achieving this can require 2 hours of simmering. To get ultratender braised green beans in a fraction of the time, we loved the quick-cooking, even heat of the Instant Pot. For a more substantial meal, we added chunks of potatoes, which turned tender in the same amount of time as the beans. Canned tomatoes supplied a sweetness, while their juice along with a little water provided just enough braising liquid for the beans. Shaved Parmesan, a final drizzle of fruity extra-virgin olive oil, and toasted pine nuts added richness and textural contrast.

Before You Begin

To make this a heartier meal, add Hard- or Soft-Cooked Eggs and serve with crusty bread.

Instructions

Using highest sauté function, heat oil in Instant Pot until shimmering. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in oregano, tomato paste, and garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in tomatoes and their juice, water, salt, and pepper, then stir in green beans and potatoes. Lock lid in place and close pressure release valve. Select high pressure cook function and cook for 5 minutes.

Turn off Instant Pot and quick-release pressure. Carefully remove lid, allowing steam to escape away from you. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle individual portions with basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan and drizzle with extra oil. Serve.