Tired of the same old boring side dishes? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for bacon-wrapped string beans is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties. It's a delightful blend of salty, smoky bacon and crisp-tender string beans, creating a taste sensation that's both satisfying and elegant. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create truly delicious and healthy meals, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh string beans, trimmed
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a small step that makes a big difference in homemade cooking!
Prepare the String Beans:
- Wash and trim the ends of the string beans. If they're particularly long, you can snap them in half.
Wrap 'em Up:
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Drizzle the string beans with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly.
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Wrap each string bean with half a slice of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed.
Bake to Perfection:
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Arrange the bacon-wrapped string beans on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the string beans are tender-crisp. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped String Beans:
- Thicker Bacon: Using thicker-cut bacon will result in crispier bacon and a richer flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd: Make sure the string beans aren't overcrowded on the baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Alternative Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings. Brown sugar, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper would add a delicious twist.
- Make it a Meal Prep Staple: These are great for meal prepping! Prepare them ahead of time and reheat for a quick and easy side dish.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy twist.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the beans during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on bacon type and quantity)
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This delicious and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. The combination of crispy bacon and tender string beans is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It's a healthy and satisfying side dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!