Microwave Hot Bean Salad
A sweet and tangy bean salad with smoky bacon, perfect as a side dish for casual gatherings or family meals, bursting with bold flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon strips into small pieces and place them into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Microwave the bacon for 3 to 4 minutes until cooked. Remove the bacon pieces and drain on paper towels.
- Add sugar, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and vinegar to the bacon drippings in the dish.
- Microwave the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens.
- Add the drained green beans, wax beans, red kidney beans, and sliced onion to the sauce.
- Cover the dish and microwave for 6 minutes.
- Let the salad stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier version, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon to reduce fat. You can also substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water before microwaving. For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
This Microwave Hot Bean Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side dish for BBQs. Serve it alongside pulled pork or with a hearty main like Allspice Pork Chops for a complete meal. It can also be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own with some crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Hot Bean Salad contains roughly 761 calories, with 18g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2385mg per serving (104% 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 beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans and wax beans. Just blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes before adding them to the dish. This will help maintain their color and crunch.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of the bacon drippings. You can also sauté some diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just assemble it and refrigerate before microwaving. When ready to serve, microwave until heated through and allow it to stand for a few minutes before enjoying.
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).