Name: Southern Green Beans with Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed; 4 slices bacon; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional); 1/2 onion, chopped (optional); 1 tbsp butter (optional)

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Why Make This Recipe

Southern Green Beans with Bacon is more than just a side dish; it’s a staple of Southern cooking that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. The combination of crisp green beans and savory bacon creates a delicious harmony that can elevate your dining experience. This recipe is simple to make, uses common ingredients, and is sure to please your family and guests. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce fresh vegetables into your diet while still enjoying rich and satisfying flavors.

How to Make Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Ingredients:

Fresh green beans
Bacon
Salt
Pepper
Garlic (optional)
Onion (optional)
Butter (optional)

Directions:

Start by trimming the ends of the fresh green beans.
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the grease in the skillet.
If desired, add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
Add the green beans to the skillet, stirring to coat in the bacon grease.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender.
Crumble the cooked bacon over the green beans and toss to combine.
Serve warm as a delightful side dish.

How to Serve Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Serve these green beans warm alongside your favorite main dishes. They pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or fish. This dish can also be an excellent addition to a holiday meal or family gathering. For an extra touch, consider serving them on a beautiful platter garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

How to Store Southern Green Beans with Bacon

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3-4 days. When reheating, you can warm them in the microwave or quickly sauté them in a skillet to regain some of that crispy texture.

Tips to Make Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Choose fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture.
Make sure the bacon is crispy; this adds a nice crunch to the dish.
Adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a splash of vinegar for extra tang.
For a creamier version, consider stirring in a tablespoon of butter just before serving.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding other veggies like sliced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. For a healthier twist, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, though the flavor may be different.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the skillet.

2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Southern Green Beans with Bacon is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your bacon doesn’t contain added fillers.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?
You can prepare the green beans ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.