Snappy Green Beans
Crispy bacon and tender green beans are elevated with a tangy tarragon vinegar glaze, making this flavorful side perfect for casual family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp.
- Drain bacon, reserving 2 tablespoons of drippings.
- Cook chopped onion in the reserved bacon drippings until tender.
- Add tarragon vinegar, salt, and pepper to the onion.
- Pour the mixture over hot, cooked, drained green beans.
- Crumble the cooked bacon atop the beans before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker preparation, you can use pre-cooked bacon or turkey bacon as a healthier alternative. If you prefer a different flavor, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can substitute for tarragon vinegar. To enhance the dish, consider adding minced garlic when cooking the onion, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
These snappy green beans make a delightful side dish for grilled meats or can complement hearty meals like Pork Chops 'N Stuffing. Serve them alongside roasted potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They also pair well with dishes featuring rich flavors, such as Cajun Potatoes A La Scott.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the green beans in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to steam them slightly. This will help preserve their snappy texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snappy Green Beans contains roughly 130 calories, with 5g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% 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, frozen green beans can be used in this recipe. Be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking. Keep in mind that frozen beans may need slightly less cooking time to achieve that desired snappy texture.
What can I substitute for bacon if I want a vegetarian version?
For a vegetarian alternative, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the bacon flavor. You can also sauté the onions in olive oil or butter and add nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy flavor.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the green beans and onion mixture ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply heat the onion mixture and toss it with the cooked green beans. Crumble the bacon on top just before serving for maximum crunch.
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).