Sautéed Spanish Green Beans with Serrano Ham
Experience the vibrant flavors of Spain with this delectable dish of sautéed green beans combined with the rich, savory notes of Serrano ham. Known as 'Judias Verdes con Jamon,' this traditional Mediterranean recipe highlights the natural crispness of fresh green beans, enhanced by the fragrant sauté of onions, garlic, and the distinctive taste of Spanish raw-cured Serrano ham. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this recipe brings the essence of Spanish cuisine to your table. For those who prefer, Parma ham or crispy bacon serve as wonderful substitutes.
4
Servings
80
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Green Beans
1 lb (Trimmed and left whole)
Olive Oil
3 tablespoons (Extra virgin recommended)
Onion
1 (Thinly sliced)
Garlic Cloves
2 (Chopped)
Serrano Ham
3 ounces (Chopped)
Salt
to taste (For seasoning)
Pepper
to taste (For seasoning)
Instructions
1
Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring to a boil.
2
Once boiling, add the whole green beans and cook for 5-6 minutes until they are just tender, yet still have a slight crunch. Drain and set aside.
3
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent.
4
Stir in the chopped garlic and Serrano ham, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the ham is lightly crisped and the garlic is fragrant.
5
Add the drained green beans to the skillet, tossing gently to combine all the ingredients. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6
Serve warm as a flavorful side dish or a light main course, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutrition Information
6g
Fat
4.5g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
1.5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Judias Verdes con Jamon?
Judias Verdes con Jamon is the traditional Spanish name for this dish, which translates to Green Beans with Ham.
What type of ham should I use for this recipe?
Serrano ham is the traditional choice for its savory and salty profile, but Parma ham or crispy bacon can also be used.
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used; however, thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking to maintain the desired texture.
How long do I need to boil the green beans?
Boil the green beans for 5-6 minutes until they are tender but still retain a slight crunch.
Is this Spanish Green Beans recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
What is the best type of olive oil to use?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended to achieve the most authentic Mediterranean flavor.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving of these sautéed green beans contains approximately 80 calories.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the Serrano ham or replace it with a plant-based bacon alternative.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What can I serve with Sautéed Spanish Green Beans?
It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a traditional Spanish potato tortilla.
Can I use canned green beans for this recipe?
Canned green beans are not recommended as they are often too soft and will not stand up well to the sautéing process.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish after cooking?
Freezing is not recommended as the green beans may lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing.
What is the role of garlic in this dish?
Garlic provides a fragrant, aromatic base that complements the saltiness of the ham and the freshness of the beans.
Do I need to trim the green beans?
Yes, the recipe suggests trimming the ends of the beans while leaving them whole for an elegant presentation.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy dish featuring fresh vegetables, heart-healthy olive oil, and a moderate amount of protein.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are approximately 6 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the olive oil and ham.
Can I use red onion instead of white?
Yes, red onion can be used; it will provide a slightly sweeter taste and a vibrant color to the dish.
Is this dish spicy?
No, the dish is savory and fragrant. If you prefer heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauté step.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this?
The entire process takes roughly 15-20 minutes, including boiling and sautéing.
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
Yes, you can blanch the beans and chop the onions and garlic ahead of time to speed up the final cooking process.
What if I don't have Serrano ham?
Prosciutto or any dry-cured ham is an excellent substitute for Serrano ham.
How do I prevent the beans from being mushy?
Be careful not to overboil the beans; 5-6 minutes is usually enough before they finish cooking in the skillet.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Yes, there is about 1.5 grams of fiber per serving from the green beans and onions.
Can I use bottled minced garlic?
While fresh garlic is preferred for better flavor, bottled minced garlic can be used in a pinch.
What is the texture of the dish?
The dish features crisp-tender green beans with slightly crunchy bits of ham and softened, translucent onions.
Is this a keto-friendly recipe?
With only 4.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish is generally suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Can I add other vegetables to this?
Yes, bell peppers or cherry tomatoes would make a great addition to the sauté for more variety.
Should I add salt to the boiling water?
Yes, adding a generous amount of salt to the water helps season the beans from the inside out.
Can I add a garnish to this dish?
A final drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavors before serving.