Spanish green beans with bacon and garlic

Spanish Green Beans with Bacon and Garlic is a vibrant side dish that blends tender green beans with crispy bacon and aromatic garlic. This simple sautéing method enhances the dish's savoury flavour, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

13 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

3 oz bacon
16 oz green beans
3 tbsp olive oil
1 cup onion
2 garlic cloves
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper

Spanish Green Beans with Bacon and Garlic is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish that combines fresh green beans with crispy bacon and the aromatic essence of garlic. This delightful dish is perfect for any meal, adding a touch of Spanish flair to your dining table.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Trim and wash the green beans.
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.

2. Cook the Bacon:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, but leave the bacon grease in the skillet.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- Add the olive oil to the skillet with the remaining bacon grease.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and starts to brown, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

4. Cook the Green Beans:
- Add the green beans to the skillet and toss to coat them with the onion, garlic, and oil mixture.
- Sauté the green beans for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly charred. You can cover the skillet with a lid, if needed, to help the beans cook faster.

5. Combine and Season:
- Once the green beans are cooked to your liking, crumble the crispy bacon over them.
- Toss well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season with a dash of salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Serve:
- Transfer the Spanish Green Beans with Bacon and Garlic to a serving dish.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or a light main course.

This Spanish Green Beans with Bacon and Garlic recipe is a versatile and sumptuous addition to any meal. The combination of crispy bacon, perfectly cooked green beans, and the rich flavor of garlic makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it as a side or a light main, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Spanish green beans with bacon and garlic FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the green beans in this recipe?

The green beans should be sautéed for about 10-12 minutes until they are tender and slightly charred.

Can I substitute bacon with another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute bacon with pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter option. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the substitute is fully cooked.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

What type of green beans work best for this recipe?

Fresh green beans are recommended for best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them before cooking.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing. You can add a splash of smoked paprika to mimic the bacon flavor.

Tips:

- Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen beans, ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.

- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of white wine while cooking the onions and garlic.

- Cook the bacon over medium heat to prevent it from burning and to ensure it becomes crispy and evenly cooked.

- Don't overcook the green beans; they should be tender but still have a slight crunch.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 10g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 3.52g
Sugar 4.98g
Fat 18g

Spanish green beans with bacon and garlic