Balsamic Green Beans with Bacon

Last night was the first time I cooked dinner since Easter Sunday. My family and I were eating left-over Easter dinner for a few days. It was nice to have a break from cooking but it was good to have a freshly cooked meal at the dinner table again. It was a quiet night though; it was only me and my oldest son at home. I made our favorite fried pork chops and these balsamic green beans to go with it. I found the recipe on dariuscooks and decided to try it. I was at our local bakery/deli the day before yesterday and found this smoked bacon amongst the sandwich meats. I decided to use them for this recipe. The crispy diced smoked bacon, along with the balsamic vinegar, made this simple green beans dish taste so great. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Green Beans

To get the best flavor and texture from your green beans, start by selecting fresh ones. Look for beans that are bright green and firm, avoiding any that look wilty or have brown spots. Before you cook them, trim the ends to remove any tough bits. A quick blanch in boiling water for about two minutes can help enhance their color and crunch. After blanching, plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This will keep them crisp and vibrant. When sautéing the beans with bacon, give them enough space in the pan. If they are crowded, they will steam instead of getting that nice sear. Finally, don’t forget to season with salt and pepper once they are cooked. This simple step can elevate the dish and bring out the flavors.

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but the ingredients you choose can make a big difference. Fresh green beans are key, so if possible, opt for ones from a local farmer’s market. They tend to be more flavorful. As for the bacon, using smoked bacon adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar. If you prefer a lighter version, turkey bacon can work well, though it will alter the taste slightly. Balsamic vinegar is another essential ingredient; consider using a high-quality aged balsamic for a sweeter, richer flavor. If you can’t find that, a regular balsamic will do the trick. Lastly, feel free to add minced garlic or shallots for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Balsamic green beans with bacon make a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. They complement grilled meats beautifully, so think about serving them alongside grilled chicken or steak. If you’re having a casual dinner, these beans can be a great addition to a barbecue feast. For a vegetarian variation, serve them with a hearty grain salad or stuffed bell peppers. When plating, don’t be afraid to drizzle a little extra balsamic vinegar over the top for added flair. Garnishing with toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts can also bring some crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the beans and bacon. To make it a complete meal, consider adding a simple grain like quinoa or rice on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of bacon?

Absolutely, any type of bacon will work in this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey bacon is a good choice, but it won’t have the same smoky flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in a skillet on low heat to keep the beans from getting mushy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the green beans and bacon ahead of time. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to cook, so the beans stay crisp and the bacon stays fresh.

What can I serve with balsamic green beans?

These green beans pair well with a variety of proteins like grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They also work great alongside hearty dishes like roasted pork or even pasta.

What should I do if my green beans are overcooked?

If your green beans end up overcooked and mushy, try tossing them into a cold salad or blending them into a soup. This way, you can still enjoy their flavor without the texture being a problem.

Balsamic Green Beans with Bacon

Liza A

Crispy bacon and tender green beans come together in this savory dish, brightened by tangy balsamic vinegar and garlic for a delightful flavor boost.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4 (side dish) servings

Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 1 cup diced bacon I used smoked bacon
• 1 onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

Instructions

 

• Sauté the bacon, onion, and garlic together in the olive oil until the bacon is just about done, about 5-7 minutes.
• Toss in the green beans; season with salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently until green beans are tender.
• Finish by adding the balsamic vinegar during the last 3 minutes of cooking.

Notes

Recipe source: dariuscooks

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 6gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2g

Keyword bacon, balsamic, easy recipe, green beans, vegetable side

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