bacon and greens recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best bacon and greens recipe

I’m so excited to share this bacon and greens recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The dish is simple yet flavorful, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

I love how the crispy bacon and tender greens come together in a delicious harmony of flavors and textures. My kids are picky eaters, but they always devour this dish without complaint, which is saying a lot. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to prepare – just throw everything in a pan and cook until the greens are wilted and the bacon is crispy.

It’s also a great way to get some veggies into their diet without them even realizing it. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the leafy greens, which makes me feel good about what I’m serving them. I’ve even made it for potlucks and gatherings, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

So if you’re looking for a tasty and healthy recipe that’s sure to please, give this one a try! The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of the greens, creating a truly satisfying experience for the palate. It’s also incredibly versatile – you can add other ingredients like garlic, shallots, or lemon juice to give it an extra boost of flavor.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – leafy greens are packed with vitamins A and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. This dish is essentially guilt-free eating at its finest! Whether you’re serving it as a side or using it as the main event, this bacon and greens recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

Bacon and Greens

4.6 from 1142 votes

A hearty and flavorful dish combining crispy bacon with tender, sautéed greens. This versatile recipe works well with kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens, making it a perfect side or main course.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Bacon and Greens

8 slices bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound mixed greens (kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens), stems removed and leaves chopped
1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chopped bacon in a large cold skillet and set over medium heat.
2Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
4Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat and heat over medium heat.
5Add the diced onion and cook, stirring often, until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
6Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
7Add the chopped greens to the skillet in batches, stirring to wilt each batch before adding the next.
8Once all greens are added, pour in the broth and apple cider vinegar, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
9Cook, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated, about 5 to 7 minutes.
10Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
11Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired.
12Serve hot as a side dish or over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread for a main course.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

For a milder flavor, use baby spinach or arugula and reduce cooking time. To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter, adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky taste.

Watch Video Of How Bacon and Greens Works

This bacon and greens recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting dinner guests or just need something quick for your family.

One of my favorite things about this dish is how easily it reheats – simply toss everything back in the pan over low heat until warmed through.

For serving ideas, try pairing with some crusty bread or over rice for added comfort food vibes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon and Greens

Q: What type of greens should I use in this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using curly-leaf kale or spinach – they both hold up well to cooking and add a nice texture to the dish.

Q: Can I substitute other types of meat instead of bacon?

While bacon adds a smoky flavor that complements the greens perfectly, you can use other meats like prosciutto or pancetta if you prefer.

Q: How do I store leftover cooked greens?

After cooking your greens, let them cool completely before refrigerating them in an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to three days in the fridge.

Q: Can I add other vegetables like onions or bell peppers?

Sure thing! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to make this dish more colorful and interesting.

Q: What if I don’t have any leafy greens on hand?

No worries! You can use frozen spinach or kale instead – just thaw them according to package instructions before adding to your pan.

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