Description
Savory bacon and green beans delight diners with Southern comfort. Crisp bacon complements tender green beans, creating a classic side dish that satisfies hunger and warms hearts.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 6 to 8 slices Bacon (cut into small pieces)
Vegetables:
- 1 pound (454 grams) Fresh Green Beans (trimmed, washed)
- 1 small Onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
Seasonings and Optional Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons Butter (optional)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Zest (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Sizzle bacon in a skillet at medium heat until golden and crisp, transferring to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Utilize the remaining bacon drippings to caramelize onions and aromatic garlic, stirring frequently until translucent and fragrant.
- Introduce fresh green beans to the skillet, allowing them to dance and cook for 4-5 minutes, maintaining a vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture.
- Elevate the dish’s flavor profile by sprinkling kosher salt, cracked black pepper, and a whisper of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Optional: Enhance with bright lemon zest for a citrusy undertone.
- Crumble the previously cooked bacon and gently fold into the green bean mixture.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of balsamic vinegar, creating a glossy, tangy finish that ties all the flavors together.
- Transfer to a serving dish and present while warm, allowing the aromatic combination to tantalize taste buds.
Notes
- Bacon crispiness matters, so cook slowly and evenly, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
- Use thick-cut bacon for more robust flavor and substantial texture in the dish.
- For a lighter version, drain excess bacon grease and use olive oil instead to reduce overall fat content.
- Consider adding toasted sliced almonds or pine nuts for extra crunch and nutty undertones that complement the green beans perfectly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 170 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg