Savory Warm Bean & Bacon Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of this Warm Bean & Bacon Salad, where hearty beans meet crispy bacon, all harmonized by a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a balance of protein and flavor that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy family meal, it pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Inspired by my latest cookbook 'A New Way To Cook,' this recipe showcases the beauty of utilizing everyday ingredients in new and exciting ways.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
thick-sliced lean bacon
1 ounce (cut into 1/4" dice)
medium onions
3 (halved and thinly sliced lengthwise)
bay leaves
2 (whole)
balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup (none)
water or reserved bean cooking liquid
2 tablespoons (none)
drained and cooked beans or lentils
3 cups (canned beans rinsed well or cooked from dry)
kosher salt
to taste (none)
freshly ground black pepper
to taste (none)
fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a medium heavy nonstick skillet, cook the diced bacon over moderately low heat. Cover and let cook until crisp and browned, about 8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2
Add the sliced onions to the skillet, cover, and allow them to wilt for about 5 minutes, adding 1 tablespoon of water if necessary to prevent sticking.
3
Remove the cover and continue cooking the onions until they achieve a golden-brown color, approximately 8 more minutes.
4
Stir in the bay leaves, balsamic vinegar, and water. Allow the mixture to simmer for 30 seconds.
5
Add the drained and cooked beans (or lentils) and salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
6
Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are thoroughly heated.
7
Generously season with freshly ground black pepper, then fold in the chopped parsley before serving warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Warm Bean & Bacon Salad?
It is a hearty dish where beans and crispy bacon are combined with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What type of bacon is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1 ounce of thick-sliced lean bacon.
How should the bacon be prepared?
The bacon should be cut into a 1/4-inch dice.
How long should the bacon cook?
Cook the bacon for about 8 minutes over moderately low heat until crisp and browned.
How should the onions be sliced?
The 3 medium onions should be halved and thinly sliced lengthwise.
What is the first step for cooking onions?
Add them to the skillet, cover, and let them wilt for about 5 minutes.
How do I prevent the onions from sticking?
Add 1 tablespoon of water if necessary while they are wilting.
How long does it take to brown the onions?
After wilting, continue cooking uncovered for approximately 8 more minutes until golden-brown.
Can I use lentils instead of beans?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of 3 cups of cooked lentils as an alternative to beans.
What kind of vinegar is used in the vinaigrette?
1/3 cup of balsamic vinegar is used.
How much water or bean liquid is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of water or reserved bean cooking liquid.
How many bay leaves are included?
The recipe uses 2 whole bay leaves.
What type of parsley should be used?
Use 1/4 cup of chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley.
Should canned beans be rinsed?
Yes, canned beans should be rinsed well before being added to the dish.
How long should the vinegar mixture simmer?
Allow the vinegar and water mixture to simmer for about 30 seconds before adding the beans.
How long do the beans need to simmer?
Simmer the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes until the beans are thoroughly heated.
What is the suggested serving temperature?
This salad can be served warm or at room temperature.
What are some suggested pairings for this salad?
It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Which cookbook inspired this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the cookbook 'A New Way To Cook'.
What category does this recipe belong to?
This recipe is categorized under Pork.
What kind of salt is recommended?
Kosher salt is suggested to taste.
When should the parsley be added?
Fold in the chopped parsley right before serving.
What type of skillet is best for this recipe?
A medium heavy nonstick skillet is recommended.
How do I season the final dish?
Season generously with freshly ground black pepper.
Is the bacon cooked covered or uncovered?
The bacon is cooked covered to ensure it browns properly without sticking.
What is the total quantity of beans or lentils needed?
You will need 3 cups of drained and cooked beans or lentils.
How often should I stir the beans while simmering?
Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
Can I use dry beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use beans cooked from dry as long as you have 3 cups.
What does the balsamic vinegar add to the dish?
It provides a tangy flavor that harmonizes the savory bacon and hearty beans.