Catalina Beans
Catalina Beans are a savory and satisfying side dish featuring tender green beans wrapped in crispy bacon, baked in a tangy Catalina dressing. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, this dish combines smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors for a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wrap several green beans in a strip of bacon, repeating until all beans are used.
- Place the bacon-wrapped green beans in a baking dish.
- Cover the beans with Catalina dressing.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 45 minutes until the bacon is cooked and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. You can also substitute the Catalina dressing with a homemade vinaigrette for a fresher taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used, but be mindful of cooking time to prevent over-crisping. This dish can be paired with Sweet 'N Sour Baked Beans for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
These Catalina Beans make a perfect side dish for grilled meats or BBQs. They pair beautifully with Ham And Swiss Cheese Biscuits for a hearty meal. Consider serving with a fresh salad or alongside Baked Pork Chops for a well-rounded dinner. Enjoy them as a unique addition to any American recipes feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the bacon-wrapped beans in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bacon soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Catalina Beans contains roughly 154 calories, with 7g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (130% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans will yield a crisper texture. Blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before wrapping in bacon, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, replace bacon with a plant-based alternative, like tempeh or smoked tofu. The Catalina dressing will still add great flavor, ensuring you don’t miss out on the taste.
What can I do if I don't have Catalina dressing?
If Catalina dressing isn't available, you can use a mix of French dressing and a bit of vinegar, or a homemade blend of ketchup, vinegar, and sugar for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).