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Italian Green Beans and Potatoes

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This authentic Italian green beans and potatoes recipe is a staple of Mediterranean home cooking, offering a comforting and rustic side dish that celebrates simple, high-quality ingredients. Known in Italy as 'fagiolini e patate', this vegan dish relies on the creamy texture of Yukon Gold potatoes and the earthy flavour of tender green beans, all bound together by a generous amount of peppery extra-virgin olive oil and mellow boiled garlic.

Served warm or at room temperature, this versatile vegetable dish is perfect for a midweek dinner or as part of a traditional Sunday roast. It is naturally gluten-free and plant-based, making it a healthy and inclusive addition to your recipe repertoire. For the best results, use the finest olive oil you can find to enhance the savoury, silkiness of the mash.

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Ingredients for Italian Green Beans and Potatoes

  • 675g Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 3 garlic cloves, peeled

  • 80ml extra-virgin olive oil plus additional for drizzling

  • 675g green beans, trimmed

How to make Italian Green Beans and Potatoes

Cook potatoes and garlic in a large pot of boiling salted water (3 tablespoons salt for 5.7L water), uncovered, until tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl with a slotted spoon and coarsely mash with oil and 1/4 teaspoons salt. Keep warm, covered.

Cook green beans in boiling water, uncovered, until tender, 6 to 10 minutes (beans may not be bright green). Drain, then stir into mashed potatoes in bowl. Drizzle with oil.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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