Portuguese Green Beans
Portuguese Green Beans is a hearty, flavorful dish combining green beans, marinara, mushrooms, onions, and crispy bacon, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bacon for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Add all other ingredients into a pot.
- Simmer until done, about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or bell peppers along with the onion. If you don't have bacon, turkey bacon or smoked sausage can be excellent alternatives. Canned green beans can be substituted with fresh or frozen ones; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. To enhance the dish, add Italian herbs or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Portuguese Green Beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as a main dish over rice for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with Quick German Potato Salad for a comforting dinner spread. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well; just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Portuguese Green Beans contains roughly 457 calories, with 14g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 752mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
* % 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! Trim and cut them into bite-sized pieces, and blanch them for 3-5 minutes before adding to the pot. This will ensure they are tender yet crisp in the final dish, making a delightful addition to your Portuguese Green Beans.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Portuguese Green Beans vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace the marinara sauce with a vegetable-based sauce. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added texture and flavor. Consider using smoked paprika to give it a smoky taste without the meat.
What can I serve with Portuguese Green Beans?
This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, pork recipes, or even a hearty sausage. For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh salad. You might also enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
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).