Warm Green Bean Salad with Bacon Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 3 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/2 red onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1 large hard-boiled egg, quartered (optional)
• 4 fresh lemon wedges

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp. Be careful not to overcook. Drain the beans and rinse with cold water. Set them aside.

Step 2: While the beans are cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the bacon pieces. Cook until the bacon is crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain. Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet.

Step 3: Add the sliced onions to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Saut them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 4: Stir in the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Continue stirring until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Add the cooked green beans and bacon back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the green beans are evenly coated with the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve the dish warm, garnished with lemon wedges and the optional hard-boiled egg quarters.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	158
Total Fat	5g (7% DV)
Saturated Fat	2g (8% DV)
Cholesterol	55mg (18% DV)
Sodium	347mg (15% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	27g (10% DV)
Dietary Fiber	8g (29% DV)
Total Sugars	10g
Protein	9g (17% DV)
Vitamin C	104mg (115% DV)
Calcium	99mg (8% DV)
Iron	3mg (14% DV)
Potassium	560mg (12% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Fresh green beans and crispy bacon come together in this delightful warm salad, enhanced by a tangy vinaigrette and the satisfying crunch of bacon. Ideal as a side dish or a light main course, this recipe captures the essence of simple, home-cooked American comfort food.

History of the Dish

The concept of combining vegetables with bacon is deeply rooted in American cuisine, particularly in the South, where bacon is considered a pantry staple. Green beans, often featured in family meals, are a perfect match for the rich, smoky flavor of bacon. Warm salads such as this one emerged in the 20th century as a more contemporary take on the traditional vegetable side dishes. This warm green bean salad with bacon became a popular choice for potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday meals, adding a touch of sophistication and heartiness to the meal without the need for extensive preparation.

Regional Variations

While this dish has become a classic across the United States, there are regional variations. In the South, for example, you might find green beans cooked with onions, garlic, and even a splash of vinegar, reflecting the area's love for bold and tangy flavors. In the Midwest, versions of this salad might incorporate cheese, such as sharp cheddar, to add richness. Some variations use different types of vinegars or mustards, and others may even include additions like roasted nuts or fried shallots for extra texture.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional green bean casseroles, which often involve baking the vegetables with creamy soups or sauces, this salad is fresh, crisp, and served warm rather than baked. The vinaigrette made from red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey gives it a light and tangy contrast to the savory bacon. While it might resemble other warm vegetable salads, like those with roasted Brussels sprouts or spinach, the bacon is the defining feature of this recipe, making it more indulgent and flavorful.

Where This Dish is Served

Warm green bean salad with bacon is most often found at family dinners, potlucks, and holiday tables. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it a versatile side dish that pairs well with everything from grilled meats to roasted poultry. It is especially common in American homes during Thanksgiving, Easter, and other festive occasions. Additionally, its quick preparation time and simple ingredients make it an excellent choice for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.

Fun Facts

• Green beans, also known as string beans, were originally cultivated in Central America and became a staple in American gardens by the 19th century.
• The combination of bacon and beans dates back to ancient civilizations, where beans were often paired with salted meats as a way to preserve both ingredients.
• The idea of using bacon fat to enhance the flavor of vegetables is a cooking technique passed down through generations, especially in the American South, where "bacon grease" is often saved and reused in cooking.
• Did you know that green beans are a great source of Vitamin C? A single serving can provide more than 100% of your daily recommended intake of this important antioxidant.

FAQ about Warm Green Bean Salad with Bacon Recipe