Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! This recipe for green beans, potatoes, and bacon is the perfect complement to any main course. It's a delightful blend of crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and bright green beans, all cooked to perfection. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious meal option without sacrificing time or taste. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to follow, and the results are always impressive. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bacon, diced
- 1 pound small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Potatoes and Green Beans: Add the potatoes and green beans to the skillet. Stir to coat with the bacon grease and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes begin to soften slightly.
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Season and Simmer: Stir in the salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Pour in about 1/2 cup of water, cover the skillet, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the green beans are bright green and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Combine and Serve: Once the potatoes and green beans are cooked, stir in the crispy bacon. Serve immediately as a delicious and satisfying side dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Green Beans, Potatoes, and Bacon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity of ingredients, consider cooking them in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices to suit your preferences. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked chicken or sausage to turn this side dish into a hearty and satisfying main course.
Variations:
- Garlic and Herb Green Beans, Potatoes, and Bacon: Increase the garlic to 4 cloves and add 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley.
- Spicy Green Beans, Potatoes, and Bacon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Green Beans, Potatoes, and Bacon: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a creamy texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used. This is an estimate for a serving of approximately 1 cup:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This easy recipe offers a delicious and healthy side dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!