Pancetta is made from the same cut of pork as bacon. The meat is salted and seasoned with black pepper and garlic. Then it is rolled up and pressed into a log to be aged and cured. Sometimes pancetta is smoked like bacon, but usually it is not. Along with red onion, it adds great flavor to green beans. These beans are great on their own or folded into beaten eggs for a frittata.

Green Beans with Pancetta, Red Onions, and Parsley is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the natural freshness of green beans with the savory richness of pancetta and the sweetness of red onions. This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect as a side dish for any meal.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• Salt
• 1 pound green beans, trimmed
• 2 ounces pancetta, cut into thin slivers
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large red onion, halved and thinly sliced
• Freshly ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

INSTRUCTIONS

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the beans and cook until almost but not quite tender, about 7 minutes.
• Drain the beans in a colander and cool under cold running water; drain well.
• In a large skillet, cook the pancetta in the olive oil for 5 minutes, or until lightly browned.
• Add the onion and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
• Stir in the green beans and salt and pepper to taste.
• Cook, stirring, until the beans are tender, about 2 minutes more.
• Sprinkle with the parsley.
• Serve.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Serve the Green Beans with Pancetta, Red Onions, and Parsley as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or steak for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Pair it with roasted potatoes and a fresh salad for a balanced and wholesome dinner.
• Serve it as a vegetarian main course by adding some cooked quinoa or brown rice and garnishing with crumbled feta cheese.
• This dish also makes a great addition to a buffet or potluck spread.
• Garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
• Enjoy it warm or at room temperature for a versatile and delicious dish.

STORAGE DIRECTIONS:

• If you have any leftovers of the Green Beans with Pancetta, Red Onions, and Parsley, allow them to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag.
• Store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• When reheating, you can either microwave the dish until heated through or reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat.
• It’s best to consume the leftovers within the recommended storage time for optimal freshness and flavor.
• Discard any leftovers that have been stored for longer than the recommended time or if they show signs of spoilage.