Sautéed Beet Greens with Crispy Bacon and Sweet Onions
Transform your perception of greens with this delightful dish featuring sautéed beet greens. The vibrant, earthy flavor of the fresh greens pairs beautifully with the savory notes of crispy bacon and the natural sweetness of caramelized onions. This recipe not only brings a pop of color to your plate but also packs a nutritional punch, making it an irresistible way to incorporate healthy greens into your meals. Perfect as a side dish or even a light main, this recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters in your family.
N/A
Servings
117
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 (tablespoons)
garlic
3 (cloves, minced)
yellow onion
1 (medium, chopped)
beet leaves
3 (cups, fresh)
white wine
1/4 (cup)
bacon bits
3 (tablespoons)
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2
Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan. Sauté them until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3
Lower the heat to medium and carefully add the fresh beet greens to the skillet. Stir gently to ensure the greens are evenly coated with the onion and garlic mixture.
4
Continue to sauté until the beet greens are wilted and tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.
5
Pour in the white wine and sprinkle in the bacon bits. Mix well and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together.
6
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste before serving.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
4g
Carbs
3g
Protein
1g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sautéed Beet Greens with Crispy Bacon and Sweet Onions?
It is a nutritious side dish that combines the earthy flavor of fresh beet greens with savory bacon, sweet caramelized onions, garlic, and a splash of white wine.
How many calories are in a serving of this dish?
This recipe contains approximately 117 calories per serving.
Is this beet greens recipe healthy?
Yes, beet greens are highly nutritious and this recipe provides a good balance of flavor and vitamins while remaining relatively low in calories.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients include olive oil, garlic, yellow onion, fresh beet leaves, white wine, bacon bits, salt, and black pepper.
How do I prepare the beet greens for sautéing?
You should use 3 cups of fresh beet leaves, ensuring they are washed thoroughly and chopped before adding them to the skillet.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon bits or replace them with a plant-based bacon alternative or smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
What type of onion works best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for one medium yellow onion, which provides a natural sweetness when sautéed.
How much garlic should I use?
You will need 3 cloves of minced garlic to provide a fragrant and savory base for the greens.
What is the purpose of adding white wine?
White wine is used to deglaze the pan and help the flavors meld together, adding a subtle acidity that balances the earthy greens.
Can I substitute the white wine?
Yes, if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the white wine with vegetable broth or a small splash of apple cider vinegar diluted with water.
How long does it take to cook the onions and garlic?
Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.
How long do the beet greens take to wilt?
Once added to the skillet over medium heat, the greens typically take 5-7 minutes to become wilted and tender.
When should I add the bacon bits?
Add the bacon bits along with the white wine after the greens have wilted, then cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving in this dish.
Does this dish contain protein?
Yes, each serving contains 3 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count?
This recipe is low in carbohydrates, containing only 4 grams per serving.
Is there fiber in sautéed beet greens?
Yes, there is approximately 1 gram of fiber per serving.
Can I use other types of greens?
While this recipe is designed for beet greens, you can use the same method for Swiss chard, kale, or spinach.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the label on your bacon bits to ensure they do not contain gluten additives.
How should I season the final dish?
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your personal taste preference just before serving.
Is this dish considered keto-friendly?
Yes, with only 4g of carbohydrates and 10g of fat, it fits well into a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can substitute butter for olive oil if you prefer a richer, creamier flavor.
What should I serve with sautéed beet greens?
This dish works perfectly as a side for roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even served on its own as a light lunch.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients total: olive oil, garlic, onion, beet leaves, white wine, bacon bits, salt, and pepper.
Can I use fresh bacon instead of pre-made bacon bits?
Absolutely. Cook the fresh bacon in the pan first until crispy, remove it, then use the rendered fat instead of olive oil to sauté the onions and garlic.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can I freeze cooked beet greens?
It is not recommended as the texture of the greens can become overly mushy and watery once thawed.
What makes this recipe a 'comfort food'?
The combination of savory bacon, sweet onions, and warm sautéed greens creates a satisfying and hearty flavor profile.
Is this a quick recipe to make?
Yes, the total cooking time is approximately 15 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight side dish.
Can I use red onions instead of yellow?
Yes, red onions can be used; they will provide a similar sweetness and a slightly different color profile to the dish.