Green Beans With Ham
A quick and savory side dish featuring tender green beans cooked with fragrant garlic, ham, and butter, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the cooked green beans and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Saute minced garlic and chopped cooked ham until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add the drained green beans, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Cook for 5 to 10 minutes, tossing gently, to blend flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when sautéing the ham and garlic. If you don't have ham, cooked bacon or smoked sausage can be excellent substitutes. Make sure to trim the green beans for even cooking. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra garlic and some toasted nuts for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the green beans with ham as a delightful side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak. They also pair beautifully with Garlic Toast for a complete meal. For a heartier fare, consider serving them with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of parmesan can elevate the dish further.
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 skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help steam them. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring they stay crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans With Ham contains roughly 55 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen beans can cook faster.
What type of ham works best for this recipe?
Diced cooked ham, such as leftover holiday ham or deli ham, works best. If you prefer a smokier flavor, ham hocks or smoked ham can add depth. Just ensure it's fully cooked before adding it to the skillet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the green beans and ham mixture ahead of time. Cook them, let cool, and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet, adding a bit of butter or olive oil to revive the flavors.
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).