String Beans And Corn
A flavorful combination of tender green beans and sweet corn, enhanced by crispy bacon and savory drippings, perfect for a hearty side dish suitable for family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; set aside bacon.
- Save bacon drippings.
- Bring water to a boil.
- Add sugar, salt, and string beans; cook about 10 minutes.
- Add corn and bacon drippings; mix.
- Cook 5 to 8 minutes longer, or until beans are tender.
- Drain and serve with bacon if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavors, consider adding minced garlic or shallots when cooking the beans. For a vegetarian option, substitute bacon with smoked paprika or a plant-based bacon alternative. If using frozen corn, ensure it's thawed for even cooking. This dish can also be made with asparagus for a fresh twist. For a hint of sweetness, add a pinch of sugar alongside the salt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm as a side for grilled meats or alongside a hearty main course like pork recipes. It pairs beautifully with Nine Layered Salad for a colorful meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving with crusty bread or over rice to soak up any remaining juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of String Beans And Corn contains roughly 262 calories, with 10g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 721mg per serving (31% 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 canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn. Just be sure to drain and rinse it before adding to the dish. Canned corn is already cooked, so you only need to heat it through during the last few minutes of cooking.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor, or sautéed mushrooms for a savory depth. You can also use turkey bacon or pancetta for a different twist while still keeping some of the bacon essence.
How do I know when the green beans are done cooking?
Green beans are done when they are tender but still slightly crisp. You can test them by piercing one with a fork. They should be vibrant in color and have a nice snap when bitten into. Avoid overcooking to maintain their bright hue and texture.
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).