Are you looking for a simple yet impressive side dish that will wow your guests? Look no further! These green bean bundles wrapped in bacon are the perfect combination of savory and delicious. This recipe is quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Get ready to elevate your next meal with this fantastic addition! This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a perfect addition to your healthy meal repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a simple yet crucial step for even cooking and easy removal of your delicious bundles.
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Prepare the green beans: Wash and trim the green beans. If you prefer, you can blanch them for a minute or two in boiling water to slightly soften them before wrapping. This step is optional, but it can make the cooking process a bit faster and ensure the beans are tender.
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Season the green beans: In a medium bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Make sure the green beans are evenly coated with the seasoning.
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Wrap the green beans in bacon: Take three to four green beans and wrap them tightly with a piece of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed. Repeat this process until all the green beans are wrapped.
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Bake: Arrange the bacon-wrapped green bean bundles on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, and adjust the cooking time based on your oven's heat.
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Serve: Remove the toothpicks (if used) and serve the green bean bundles immediately. They're delicious as a side dish with various main courses. This recipe pairs exceptionally well with roasted chicken, pork loin, or even grilled steaks.
Cooking Tips for the Best Green Bean Bundles:
- Bacon Choice: Using thick-cut bacon results in crispier, more flavorful bundles.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the bundles for even cooking and browning.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. A dash of brown sugar or maple syrup can add a touch of sweetness.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the green bean bundles ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the bundles during the last few minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving size. A reasonable estimate for one serving of 3-4 bundles would be:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This easy and delicious recipe for green bean bundles wrapped in bacon is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy side dish without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy this simple homemade cooking creation!