Spanish String Beans
A savory Spanish-inspired string bean dish with crispy bacon and spicy hot sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or as a flavorful side for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon strips until crispy.
- Add hot sauce, garlic salt, salt, pepper, and minced onion to the bacon.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer with the canned string beans until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or even some chopped tomatoes to the mix for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer less heat, use a milder hot sauce or reduce the quantity. You can also substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option, or even omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. For a unique touch, try adding a splash of vinegar to brighten the dish, similar to what you'd find in German Red Cabbage(Old Family Recipe).
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted chicken, making it an excellent side for a barbecue. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple salad dressed with Dandelion Dressing or crusty bread. It also complements other hearty dishes like Pork recipes well, making it a versatile addition to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the string beans in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish String Beans contains roughly 110 calories, with 6g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2371mg per serving (103% 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 string beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh string beans can be used! Simply blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until tender, then add them to the bacon mixture instead of the canned beans. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, making it even more delicious.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
To increase the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the bacon. You can also choose a hotter variety of hot sauce or increase the amount used in the recipe, adjusting to your spice tolerance.
What can I serve with Spanish String Beans?
Spanish String Beans make a great side dish for a variety of main courses. They pair well with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or even a hearty steak. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes or rice, which will complement the flavors nicely.
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).