Green Beans A La Peggy
Green Beans A La Peggy features tender green beans topped with a buttery pecan crust, offering a rich, nutty flavor perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions and garlic in bacon drippings.
- Add drained green beans and 1/2 can of water to the saucepan.
- Cook over low heat for 1 hour.
- Make the topping by melting butter and stirring in bread crumbs and pecan pieces, stirring constantly over low heat.
- Put the cooked green beans in a serving dish.
- Sprinkle the topping over the heated beans before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the green beans while cooking. If you don't have bacon drippings, olive oil or butter can work as a substitute. Fresh garlic and onions will enhance the dish, but if you're short on time, garlic powder and onion powder can suffice. This dish also complements well with American recipes like Potatoes Au Gratin Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Green Beans A La Peggy alongside grilled meats or as a vibrant side to a holiday meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Pork recipes or a hearty main like Quiche Lorraine. For added color and nutrition, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the green beans in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish for about 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans A La Peggy contains roughly 237 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 12g 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, you can absolutely use fresh green beans! Just blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes before adding them to the sauté pan. This will ensure they remain crisp and vibrant in the final dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute the bacon drippings with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. You can also add a touch of smoked paprika to replicate the smoky flavor traditionally provided by bacon.
What other nuts can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans on hand, walnuts or slivered almonds can be great alternatives. Both will provide a nice crunch and complement the green beans well, adding a different flavor profile to the dish.
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).