Great Green Beans
A flavorful green bean side dish with crispy bacon, tangy pimento, and a savory vinegar-based sauce, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned green beans and add fresh water.
- Simmer the beans in a saucepan for 15 minutes.
- Cut the bacon into 1/2-inch strips and fry until crisp.
- Add the cooked bacon to the beans.
- Add diced pimento to the bacon drippings in the pan.
- Stir in red wine vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and dry mustard.
- Bring to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, until well blended.
- Pour the sauce over the beans and bacon, then mix well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher taste, consider using fresh green beans instead of canned. Blanch them briefly before simmering for better texture. If you want a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika or using smoked bacon. For a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with a plant-based alternative and use olive oil for sautéing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Great Green Beans as a delicious side dish for grilled meats or hearty entrees like Pork Chops And Peas. They also pair nicely with a light salad or bread, making a great addition to a potluck. Consider serving them alongside a Grilled Turkey Sandwich for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the green beans and bacon in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, covered, to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Green Beans contains roughly 128 calories, with 5g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 7g 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 fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used for a more vibrant flavor and texture. Blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the recipe, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to ensure they remain tender-crisp.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you need a substitute for Worcestershire sauce, a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and a dash of hot sauce can work well. Alternatively, you can use a homemade blend of balsamic vinegar and a little sugar for a similar flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also experiment with adding diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha for a more pronounced spiciness.
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).