I don’t think I have ever bought a can of vegetables. I’m lucky enough to have access to and resources to buy fresh or frozen vegetables, so I don’t buy canned vegetables. That being said, I’m sure I’ve had canned vegetables somewhere in my life. Let’s face it, they are convenient- ready to eat and portable.
You can just pop them in the microwave or throw them on top of pasta and you have yourself a healthy option ready in seconds. So, when I was introduced to Libby’s Vegetable Pouches, I figured this was my chance to experiment. Although these are not canned vegetables, it’s the same idea in an even more convenient pouch.
For weeks I had the veggie pouches sitting on my counter, staring me in the face, with no idea of what I should actually cook with them. Because of my elimination diet, I couldn’t trash them up with tons of cheese like I would have liked so I finally settled on a super simple green bean side dish.
I wanted to make the green beans more gourmet than they looked in the pouch with all that…um…liquid. But they had to be pretty allergy friendly due to all my restrictions these days. I sautéed them in a bit of olive oil and topped them with toasted almonds and lemon juice. The best!
Even if you aren’t on a tight budget or looking for the convenience of pre-cooked veggies these pouches are SO easy. They are way easier than a can, if you ask me. You just rip the top of the bag and can microwave the veggies right then and there. No can openers or the chance of slicing your fingers open. No need to worry about bpa and no cans to recycle.
I am now a convert and I could see myself buying these pouches again, especially when I need a quick and portable option. I think this would be a perfect side dish for Thanksgiving and it’s one less thing to worry about cooking from start to finish!
P.S. How great is that Italian plate my sister (who lives in Italy) gave me!? Thanks, Jane!
- 1 pouch of Libby's green beans
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/3 cup raw almonds, chopped
- salt and pepper, to taste
- lemon juice to garnish
- Strain liquid from green beans and rinse under cool water.
- Add olive oil to a nonstick or cast iron pan and heat on medium. Add green beans and sautée until warm and slightly browned. Remove green beans and set aside.
- Add chopped almonds to the same pan and sautée until browned, stirring often so they don't burn.
- Top green beans with almonds and garnish with lemon, salt, and pepper. Serve hot.
You can find the Libby’s Vegetable Pouches in select Walmart stores this fall and in many other grocery stores in 2015.
I received free samples of Libby’s new Vegetable Pouches mentioned in this post. By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Libby’s and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.
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Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says
I love adding nuts to veggies! Always the perfect combo of flavors!
Anne|Craving Something Healthy says
Yup. Simple is best. Love this combo 🙂
genevieve y says
If you hadn’t told me the green beans were pre-packaged, I probably wouldn’t have realized. Almonds and beans are one of my fave combinations!
Katie @ 24 Carrot Life says
Ooh that’s a good sign! It’s such a simple but delicious combo!
whyfoodworks says
Your photography is so good! Love almonds with green beans!
Katie @ 24 Carrot Life says
Aw thanks so much, Sarah!
Cindy Kerschner says
Simple and delicious. No fuss!