Frijoles And Greens

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A hearty and savory dish combining crispy bacon, fresh greens, and beans, perfect for a comforting meal packed with flavor and nutrition.

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Ingredients

  • 2 bunches fresh spinach or wild spinach
  • 6 bacon strips
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp. oregano
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked pinto or kidney beans
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Fry bacon until crisp; drain off half the fat.
  2. Add chopped greens and green onions to the same pan.
  3. Add chopped garlic, oregano, beans, and water; simmer until heated through.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider using smoked bacon for a deeper taste. If you're vegetarian, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the flavor. Additionally, feel free to swap spinach for kale or collard greens for a different texture. Adjust the water based on how soupy you prefer the dish, and try adding a splash of vinegar for brightness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Frijoles And Greens alongside cornbread or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal. It pairs well with a side of Jean'S Vegetable Soup for a hearty dinner. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. This dish is perfect for a cozy evening or as part of a larger spread of American recipes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad, making it versatile for meal prep or quick lunches.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Frijoles And Greens contains roughly 210 calories, with 12g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (134% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (95% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (87% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 27g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

210 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.9g 24% DV
Total Fat 3.2g 4% DV
Carbs 48.8g 18% DV
Fiber 26.5g 95% DV
Sugar 4.4g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 401.4mg 17% DV
Potassium 1764.7mg 38% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 783.5mcg 87% DV
Vitamin C 63.1mg 70% DV
Calcium 1015.7mg 78% DV
Iron 24.2mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 canned beans instead of cooked beans?

Yes, using canned beans can save time. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the pan. Adjust the cooking time accordingly since canned beans are already cooked and need only to be heated through.

What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian option?

For a vegetarian version, you can use smoked tempeh or mushrooms sautéed in olive oil to add a savory flavor. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy, umami taste that complements the greens and beans.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the greens. Alternatively, serve with hot sauce on the side, allowing everyone to adjust the heat to their liking.

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).

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