Green Beans With Tomatoes
Green Beans With Tomatoes is a hearty, flavorful side dish featuring tender green beans, crispy bacon, and tangy tomatoes. The combination of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors makes it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, adding a comforting touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon strips in a pan and leave the grease drippings in the pan.
- Remove the bacon and set aside.
- Add diced onion to the pan and cook until browned.
- Add drained green beans to the pan.
- Chop the canned tomatoes and add them to the pan, then simmer.
- Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste, then continue simmering.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle over the green beans before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher taste, consider using fresh green beans instead of canned ones; just blanch them first. If you want a vegetarian option, you can substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or liquid smoke for that savory flavor. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give this dish a nice kick. To enhance the sweetness, you can also use cherry tomatoes instead of canned ones.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm as a side alongside grilled meats or fish, as it pairs beautifully with Barbecue In A Pocket. You could also serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. For a complete dinner, consider including a simple salad or crusty bread to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans With Tomatoes contains roughly 166 calories, with 6g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned. Just chop about 2-3 medium-sized ripe tomatoes and add them to the pan after cooking the onions. Fresh tomatoes will add a vibrant flavor, but you may need to simmer a bit longer to achieve the desired consistency.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the onions. Another option is to finish the dish with a drizzle of hot sauce before serving, which will elevate the flavors and provide a nice kick.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To make this dish lighter, you can use turkey bacon or omit the bacon entirely for a vegetarian version. Additionally, using low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes can reduce the overall sodium content, making it a healthier side option.
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).