Bacon Wrapped Green Beans are an irresistible snack or side dish that brings together the crunchy freshness of green beans and the savory delight of crispy bacon. This combination is perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or as an enjoyable appetizer for your next dinner party. The rich flavors meld beautifully together as the bacon adds a smoky depth to the bright, earthy notes of the green beans. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to create this delectable treat!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200 calories
- Protein: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 7 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 400 mg
Why Make This Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Bacon Wrapped Green Beans are a fantastic way to elevate a simple vegetable by transforming it into a flavorful and appealing dish. The combination of textures—from the tender green beans to the crisp bacon—is simply delightful. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also a great make-ahead dish. These tasty bites will impress your guests and quickly become a staple at your table!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Ingredients:
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or other seasonings
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your green beans. Blanch them in boiling water for approximately 3 minutes, which helps to retain their vibrant color and crispness. Once blanched, immediately drain the green beans and transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
### Step 2: Wrapping
Take each slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around a small handful of the green beans, making sure the beans are well-covered. This step adds a wonderful flavor and helps to keep the beans moist during cooking.
### Step 3: Arranging
Place the wrapped green beans on a baking sheet, ensuring the seam side of the bacon is facing down to hold everything together. This will help the bacon maintain its shape and cook evenly.
### Step 4: Seasoning and Baking
Drizzle the wrapped green beans with olive oil and season them generously with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic or onion powder for added flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender yet still crisp to the bite.
How to Serve Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Serve these Bacon Wrapped Green Beans warm. They make a perfect side dish alongside grilled meats, or as a starter for special occasions. You can also arrange them on a platter and serve with toothpicks for an attractive and easy-to-eat appetizer.
How to Store Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place under the broiler for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
- Select bacon that is not too thick; thin slices will wrap more easily around the green beans and cook faster.
- For an added kick, try marinating the wrapped beans in some soy sauce or balsamic vinegar before baking.
- To make this dish a bit healthier, you can use turkey bacon as a substitution.
Delicious Variations
- Cheesy Gratin: Sprinkle some grated parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese over the top before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Maple Glaze: Brush the bacon with a light layer of maple syrup before baking for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but fresh green beans will give a better texture. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained well before wrapping. -
How do I ensure the bacon is crispy?
Make sure to use a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup and cook on a wire rack set over the baking sheet, allowing air to circulate around the bacon as it cooks. -
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can wrap the green beans in bacon, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving. -
What can I serve with Bacon Wrapped Green Beans?
They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as part of a vegetable platter at gatherings. -
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the bacon with smoked or flavored tempeh or use veggie bacon alternatives for a similar experience without the meat.
Conclusion
Bacon Wrapped Green Beans are not only a delight to eat but also easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for any meal or gathering. With their crunchy, savory, and satisfying flavors, this recipe has the potential to become a favorite in your household. Try making it today, and enjoy the wonderful blend of tastes and textures!
Print
Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delicious snack or side dish combining crunchy green beans and crispy bacon, perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties.
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or other seasonings
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Blanch green beans in boiling water for about 3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
- Wrap each slice of bacon around a small handful of green beans, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Place the wrapped green beans on a baking sheet with the seam side down.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and optional seasonings. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bacon is crispy and green beans are tender.
Notes
For added flavor, consider marinating wrapped beans in soy sauce or balsamic vinegar before baking. Use thin bacon for easier wrapping and quicker cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
