If you're craving a healthy and flavorful side dish, look no further than southern green beans. At just 95 calories per order, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Southern green beans are perfect for any occasion, whether you're making a family dinner or hosting a dinner party.

Loaded with fiber and essential vitamins and minerals, green beans are one of the healthiest vegetables you can eat. With just one order of southern green beans, you're getting a healthy dose of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. Green beans are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage.

In this article, we'll delve into the history of southern green beans, explore their nutritional benefits, and provide tips for cooking them to perfection.

Ingredients and Nutritional Information

Southern green beans are typically made with fresh green beans, bacon, onion, garlic, and chicken broth. Depending on the recipe, other ingredients like tomatoes, mushrooms, or potatoes may be included as well. One order of southern green beans typically contains around 95 calories, 6 grams of fat, 3 grams of protein, and 8 grams of carbohydrates. Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer and prevent overeating. Green beans are also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and skin. Additionally, green beans are packed with antioxidants, which can help protect the body against disease and illness.

Preparation Instructions

To make southern green beans, start by washing 1 pound of fresh green beans and trimming off the ends. In a skillet, sauté 2 slices of bacon until crispy, then remove from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until softened. Add the green beans to the skillet along with 1 cup of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the green beans are tender. Crumble the bacon and sprinkle it over the top of the green beans before serving. For a variation on this recipe, try adding cherry tomatoes or sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the green beans. Alternatively, you could substitute the bacon with ham or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.

The History of Southern Green Beans

Green beans have been a staple in southern cuisine for generations. In the south, green beans are typically slow cooked with bacon or ham hocks to give them a rich, smoky flavor. The origins of southern green beans can be traced back to the early settlers who brought green beans with them to America. Over time, southern cooks developed new ways to prepare green beans, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create new variations on the classic dish.

Health Benefits of Green Beans

Green beans are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health. For example, green beans are a good source of vitamin C, which plays a key role in maintaining a healthy immune system. They also contain vitamin K, which is important for healthy bones and blood clotting. Green beans are also rich in fiber, which can help maintain healthy digestion and prevent constipation. Additionally, the antioxidants in green beans can help protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. Overall, including green beans in your diet is a great way to promote overall health and wellness.

Tips for Cooking Southern Green Beans

When cooking southern green beans, it's important to start with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Look for green beans that are firm and brightly colored, as these will be the freshest. To get the best flavor, try cooking the green beans low and slow. This will allow them to absorb the flavors of the seasonings and other ingredients in the dish. Additionally, be sure to add plenty of salt and pepper to taste. Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different variations on the classic southern green bean recipe. Try adding different types of meats, vegetables, or seasonings to create new and interesting flavor combinations.

Southern Green Bean Variations

While the classic southern green bean recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to dress it up and make it your own. For example, you could try adding diced potatoes or sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the green beans for a heartier dish. Another variation is to cook the green beans with diced tomatoes and onions for a fresh, flavorful dish that's perfect for summer. You could also try using ham hocks or prosciutto instead of bacon for a different flavor profile. Finally, consider experimenting with different seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to create unique and interesting flavor combinations.

Serving Suggestions for Southern Green Beans

Southern green beans are a versatile side dish that can be served with a wide variety of main courses. They pair particularly well with roasted meats like chicken or pork, as well as BBQ or grilled dishes. You could also serve southern green beans with other classic southern sides like mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or cornbread. For a healthy meal, pair them with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

The Best Wine Pairings for Southern Green Beans

When pairing wine with southern green beans, it's important to consider the rich, smoky flavors of the dish. A bold red wine like a cabernet or merlot pairs well with the rich pork flavors of the bacon and ham hocks used in many southern green bean recipes. Alternatively, a dry white wine like a chardonnay or sauvignon blanc can help cut through the richness of the dish and highlight the fresh flavors of the green beans and other vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?
A: While fresh green beans are always best, canned or frozen green beans can be used instead. Just be sure to drain and rinse the canned beans before using them in the recipe. Q: Can I make southern green beans in advance?
A: Yes! Southern green beans can be made ahead of time and reheated just before serving. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat and cook until heated through. Q: How can I make southern green beans less greasy?
A: To make southern green beans less greasy, try using turkey bacon or reducing the amount of bacon used in the recipe. You could also use a leaner cut of ham or prosciutto instead of bacon.

Final Thoughts

Southern green beans are a classic southern side dish that's as healthy as it is delicious. Loaded with fiber and essential vitamins and minerals, green beans are a nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, southern green beans are sure to be a hit. So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself why southern green beans are such a beloved dish?