I don’t know about you, but there’s something magical about combining vegetables with bacon! When I first tried Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles at a friend’s holiday party, I was immediately smitten. The crunchy green beans and crispy bacon wrapped together like a warm hug on a plate – it felt like the perfect culinary compromise. Plus, the slightly sweet and savory glaze laced with garlic? Oh, it’s sheer perfection! Now, this dish has made its way to my go-to list for family gatherings and potlucks because it never fails to impress.
What sets these bundles apart is not just their delightful taste but also how easy they are to whip up! You get to bring out the fancy side of working with vegetables while keeping it simple enough for any cook, even those new to the kitchen. So, if you’re ready to take your side dish game to the next level, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
What’s in Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles?
Fresh Green Beans: The star of the show! These vibrant veggies add that much-needed crunch and are packed with vitamins A, C, and K. I always opt for fresh, but if you can only find frozen, that will work too.
Bacon: Who can resist the allure of crispy bacon? The bacon adds a smoky richness that enhances the green beans. I prefer using thick-cut bacon for an extra satisfying bite, but regular works too!
Olive Oil: This healthy fat helps everything stick together while adding depth to the flavor. I always reach for extra virgin olive oil when I can – it’s just a tad heartier.
Brown Sugar: The sweet counterpart to the savory bacon, it caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a delightful glaze. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using maple sugar for an added twist!
Garlic Powder: This brings a warm, aromatic flavor that perfectly complements the bacon and green beans. Fresh garlic is great too, but lets face it, garlic powder is less fuss!
Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate the flavors of this dish. I usually go for sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper for that extra kick.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Toss these in if you’re looking for a little heat. It can really elevate the overall dish if you’re a fan of spice!
Is Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! While these bundles are definitely a treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits.
Green Beans: They’re low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy choice! Plus, they contribute to your daily vitamin intake.
Bacon: While not the healthiest option, bacon can offer protein and certain vitamins (hello, B12!). Just remember that moderation is key.
Brown Sugar: While it adds sweetness, it is still sugar, so if you’re watching your sugar intake, perhaps consider using less or swapping it for a natural sweetener.
In summary, Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles are an irresistible way to get your veggies in while treating yourself to that savory goodness. Just don’t make them a daily habit if you can help it!
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 8 slices of bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat
*This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on how hungry you are!*
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, you’ll want that oven nice and hot for crispy bacon!
2. Grab a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, toss in the green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender. Drain them and immediately give them a rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. You want a lovely glaze to coat those bundles!
4. Now, gather about 6-7 green beans and group them together. Securely wrap a slice of bacon around the middle of the bundle. Repeat this process for all of the beans and bacon.
5. Lay the bundles seam-side down on a lined baking sheet. Brush each with the olive oil mixture, making sure they’re well-coated. We want this to be as flavorful as possible!
6. Pop these beauties in the preheated oven and let them bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender.
7. Serve hot, oh-so-hot, as a delightful side dish for your holiday meal! You can garnish with additional black pepper or adorable fresh herbs, if you’re feelin’ fancy.
Bundle of Joy: Tips and Variations
– For a sweeter flavor profile, drizzle a little maple syrup over your bundles before baking. You won’t regret it!
– Feeling adventurous? These bundles are also fantastic on the grill! Just adjust the cooking time as necessary. The smoky flavor adds a unique twist.
– If you’d like a vegetarian version (I know, but bear with me), you could substitute the bacon for marinated tofu or sliced eggplant!
And there you go! These Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles are sure to become a staple at your festive tables. Get ready for the compliments to flow in! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe – let me know how it goes! Enjoy your cooking!
