Craving a comforting and flavorful side dish that's surprisingly quick to make? Look no further! This potato green bean bacon recipe is the perfect addition to any weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast. It's a delightful blend of crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and vibrant green beans, all tossed in a savory herb dressing. Get ready for a taste sensation that's both easy on the wallet and pleasing to the palate! This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking has never been simpler!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and prepare the potatoes and green beans. Halve or quarter the potatoes depending on their size, ensuring even cooking. Trim the ends off the green beans.
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Cook the Bacon: In a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal!), cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. Set the bacon aside.
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Sauté the Veggies: Add the potatoes and green beans to the skillet with the bacon fat. Toss to coat. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Roast to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and slightly browned, and the green beans are bright green and crisp-tender. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
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Combine and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the crispy bacon. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately as a delightful addition to your favorite main course.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your potatoes and green beans are in a single layer in the skillet to promote even browning and prevent steaming.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of your potatoes and your oven. Check for doneness using a fork – the potatoes should be easily pierced.
- Bacon variations: Feel free to use different types of bacon, such as smoked bacon or turkey bacon, to suit your preferences.
Delicious Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Lemon zest: A tablespoon of lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, sage, or chives.
- Add some cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the dish during the last few minutes of roasting.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 4-5g
This potato green bean bacon recipe is a simple yet satisfying side dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and healthy option that the whole family will love. Enjoy this easy recipe and elevate your everyday meals! It's a true testament to the power of homemade cooking and the joy of creating delicious dishes from simple ingredients. Add this to your list of best recipes!