Quick Green Beans with Pancetta: Easy Side Dish Recipe

Tired of the same old green bean side dish? This recipe elevates the humble green bean to a sophisticated yet surprisingly simple side, perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. Forget bland boiled beans; prepare yourself for a burst of savory flavor with crispy pancetta and a hint of garlic, all coming together in a remarkably short cooking time. The perfectly balanced combination of salty, crisp, and tender green beans will impress even the most discerning palates.

This recipe offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes, creating a side dish that's both satisfying and refined. The pancetta adds a richness that complements the fresh green beans beautifully, while the simple seasoning allows the natural flavors to shine. Ready to transform your green bean game? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step instructions below.

Tools Needed

  • Skillet
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients

  • Shallots
  • Sage leaves
  • Pancetta
  • Olive oil
  • Green beans
  • Water
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Red wine vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Sauté Pancetta and Aromatics

  • Cut shallots into long strips.
  • Flatten sage leaves and cut them straight across.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add pancetta and cook until golden brown (about 3 minutes).
  • Add shallots to the skillet and cook.
Cut shallots into long strips.Flatten sage leaves and cut them straight across.Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add pancetta and cook until golden brown (about 3 minutes).Add shallots to the skillet and cook.
Sauté Pancetta and Aromatics
  • Add sage and cook until slightly browned.
Add sage and cook until slightly browned.
Sauté Pancetta and Aromatics

Step 2. Cook Green Beans

  • Add green beans and a little water to deglaze the pan.
  • Season with salt and pepper. Cook until green beans are bright green, not mushy.
Add green beans and a little water to deglaze the pan.Season with salt and pepper. Cook until green beans are bright green, not mushy.
Cook Green Beans

Step 3. Combine and Finish

  • Turn off the heat. Add pancetta mixture back to the green beans.
  • Add red wine vinegar and mix.
Turn off the heat. Add pancetta mixture back to the green beans.Add red wine vinegar and mix.
Combine and Finish

Read more: Sautéed White Beans with Garlic, Sage & Tomatoes: Easy Side Dish Recipe

Tips

  • You can buy pre-diced pancetta.
  • Don't overcook the green beans, or they will get mushy.
  • Adding a little acid (like lemon juice, lime juice, or red wine vinegar) brightens the flavor of many dishes.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 200-250
  • Fat: 15-20g
  • Carbs: 10-15g
  • Protein: 5-7g

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cured pork instead of pancetta?

Yes! Prosciutto, bacon (though it might be slightly saltier), or even guanciale would work well as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the thickness of the cut.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?

Omit the pancetta entirely. For extra flavor, sauté some mushrooms or toasted walnuts with the garlic before adding the green beans. A splash of balsamic glaze can add a nice tangy depth.


This quick and flavorful green bean recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, effortlessly elevating any meal. The simple steps and readily available ingredients make it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying side dish!