Green Beans with Bacon

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🥓 Green Beans with Bacon

📖 Description

Green Beans with Bacon is a classic savory side dish that combines crisp-tender green beans with smoky, salty bacon. The bacon fat coats the beans, enhancing their natural sweetness, while optional garlic or onion adds depth. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or holiday meals and is quick enough for weeknight dinners.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 4 people

📝 Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed

  • 6 slices bacon, chopped

  • 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • Salt, to taste

  • 1–2 tbsp water or chicken broth (if needed)

  • Optional garnish: lemon zest or red pepper flakes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Blanch the Green Beans (optional but recommended):

    • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

    • Add green beans and cook for 2–3 minutes until bright green.

    • Drain and immediately transfer to ice water. Set aside.

  2. Cook the Bacon:

    • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

    • Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy (about 6–8 minutes).

    • Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.

  3. Sauté Aromatics:

    • Add onion to the bacon fat and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.

    • Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. Cook the Green Beans:

    • Add green beans to the skillet.

    • Toss to coat in bacon fat and cook for 4–6 minutes until tender.

    • Add a splash of water or broth if the pan becomes dry.

  5. Finish & Serve:

    • Stir bacon back into the pan.

    • Season with black pepper and salt if needed.

    • Garnish as desired and serve warm.

💡 Tips & Notes

  • Extra Flavor: Use thick-cut smoked bacon for deeper flavor.

  • Crunchier Beans: Skip blanching and sauté longer.

  • Softer Beans: Cover the skillet for the last 2 minutes of cooking.

  • Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium bacon and skip added salt.

  • Add-Ins: Mushrooms, almonds, or a splash of balsamic vinegar work well.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 190 kcal

  • Protein: 7 g

  • Fat: 14 g

  • Carbohydrates: 10 g

  • Fiber: 4 g

  • Sugar: 3 g

  • Sodium: 420 mg

🌱 Health Benefits

  • Green Beans:

    • High in fiber for digestive health

    • Rich in vitamins A, C, and K

    • Supports heart and bone health

  • Bacon (in moderation):

    • Provides protein and B vitamins

    • Adds satiety and flavor, reducing need for excess seasoning

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes. Thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Yes, it’s low in carbs and suitable for keto diets.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Replace bacon with olive oil and smoked paprika or vegetarian bacon.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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