Bring bold flavors to your table with this fusion-inspired recipe for German Italian Beans! This dish combines the smoky richness of thick-cut bacon with the Mediterranean flair of balsamic vinegar, oregano, and basil, making it a savory side dish or a light main course with a touch of elegance. Crisp-tender green beans are sautéed in bacon drippings alongside golden onions and garlic, then glazed with tangy balsamic and perfectly seasoned. The result is a dish that's as hearty as it is vibrant, with optional Parmesan and fresh parsley to elevate each bite. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy skillet recipe is ideal for both weeknight meals and special gatherings, offering a unique blend of German comfort and Italian zest. Perfectly versatile, these beans pair beautifully with roasted meats, crusty bread, or your favorite pasta dishes!
Rinse the green beans thoroughly and trim off the stem ends. Set aside.
Cut the bacon into small bite-sized pieces. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and bacon pieces. Sauté the bacon until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté in the bacon drippings for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and lightly golden.
Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the green beans to the skillet. Sauté the beans for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they begin to blister and soften.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat all the beans evenly with the seasonings and vinegar.
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir it into the beans. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Transfer the German Italian Beans to a serving dish. Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy as a main course with some crusty bread on the side.
Calories |
1053 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 71.6 g | 92% | |
| Saturated Fat | 26.0 g | 130% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 115 mg | 38% | |
| Sodium | 3519 mg | 153% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 55.0 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.8 g | 71% | |
| Total Sugars | 26.1 g | ||
| Protein | 52.4 g | 105% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 369 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 7.8 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 1898 mg | 40% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.