Romano Beans with Shallots and Bacon capture the essence of summer in a side dish that's as easy as it is delicious. These seasonal green beans are at their best when fresh and tender, but when paired with the savory richness of bacon and the gentle sweetness of shallots, they become the highlight of any summer meal.
This dish not only complements a variety of grilled meats and fish, but it also stands well on its own for those looking for a lighter fare. With a total cooking time of just 20 minutes, this recipe is tailor-made for those spontaneous barbecues, picnics, or even quick weeknight dinners when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.
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Ingredients for Romano Beans with Shallots and Bacon
- Fresh Romano Beans: Look for beans that are vibrant in color, free from blemishes and fairly firm to the touch.
- Bacon: Opt for thick-cut, high-quality bacon that will impart a rich, smoky flavor.
- Large Shallot: Choose shallots that are firm, heavy for their size, and have tight, papery skins.
What are Romano Beans?
Romano Beans, also known as Italian Flat Beans, are a variety of runner bean. Unlike the more commonly known green beans, they're broader and flatter, with a stringless seam running down the side. Their texture is slightly more tender and their flavor a touch sweeter compared to their green bean relatives.
Native to Italy, these beans are an integral part of Mediterranean cooking and have gained popularity in a variety of cuisines. They're most available during the summer months, a seasonal ingredient that's best enjoyed fresh.
How do you cook Romano Beans?
Romano Beans are so simple to prepare! Most of the time, I just blanch them, toss them in some olive oil and season with salt and pepper. But with bacon and shallots they're even better. Because, you know, bacon.
Recipe Options
- Swap the bacon for pancetta if you prefer its slightly sweeter taste.
- Replace the shallot with a small red onion for a more pungent kick.
- If Romano beans are not in season, feel free to use fresh green beans instead.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Toss in a few cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and added sweetness.
Recipe Tips
- Cut the bacon into uniform strips to ensure even cooking.
- Blanch the Romano beans just until they are crisp-tender to retain their vibrant color and fresh taste.
- Drain all but one tablespoon of bacon fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy while retaining flavor.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Romano beans, as they should retain a bit of crunch for the best texture.
- Skimping on the bacon or using low-quality options; this is where your dish gets its rich, smoky undertones.
- Forgetting to season at each step—season the blanching water for the beans and adjust salt and pepper at the end to bring out all the flavors.
Pair With
Serve these with anything you throw on the grill this summer from: Carne Asada, to Grilled Shrimp to Rosemary-Garlic Chicken Kabobs. And if you happen to have some pork belly to crisp up in place of the bacon, all the better!
Romano Beans with Shallots and Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh Romano beans ends and strings removed
- 3 slices bacon sliced crosswise into thin strips
- 1 large shallot finely chopped
Instructions
- In a wide saucepan, heat 1 to 2-inches of water to boil and add a large pinch of salt.
- Add trimmed beans and blanch 3 or 4 minutes, until crisp-tender. Drain.
- Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until nearly crisp. Add shallots; cook and stir until shallots have softened. Drain all but one tablespoon of fat.
- Add Romano beans to skillet with bacon and shallots; cook and stir until combined. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve.
I wish I could pos a photo in the comment. This recipe is sooooo yummy! It can turn even the hardest heart of people to hate green beans! Thank you so much!
I'm so glad you enjoyed these, Elise!
I've never seen these beans, but I will definitely be on the lookout for them now! Your description of them sounds wonderful and I love that this recipe really lets their flavor shine.
They're so good! Thank you, Faith. xo
I don't think I've ever had this kind of bean before! I will definitely have to look out for them. They sound fantastic with bacon and shallot, but then, what wouldn't be??? 😉
Right? Shallots and bacon are pretty amazing ingredients. And these beans - do look out for them, Allie. They're so good! 🙂
We got Romano beans in our CSA last year, but I haven't been able to find them anywhere this year! Love this use of them. Such a lovely summer side!
We can't always find them either. I always feel like we've won some kind of prize when we do. 🙂
Ooh, what a wonderful recipe! I used to eat these in Greece and they were always so good, but not as good as if I added bacon, I bet! Really keen to try these!
They're great, aren't they. Similar to traditional green beans but with a little extra flair. 😉
I loves these beans but do not see them very often. Gorgeous dish and so simple. Beautiful photos! Wishing you a super weekend!
Thank you so much! You have a great weekend too!
Oh, I KNOW, Marissa....bacon is everything. As are shallots. This looks like such a heavenly and simple veggie dish - you always create the most expertly executed veggie courses <3
You're very sweet, Beeta! Thank you. xo
We don't get these much but I sometimes see them on restaurant plates and they're SO good! 😀
Aren't they great!? Thanks, Lorraine. 🙂
I've never had romano beans, but these look amazing!!
Thanks, Medha!
You said it, everything is better with bacon! I have indeed seen these Marissa, and this sounds like a perfect match your additions for a great side dish. Summer is here. 🙂
Hooray for summer! The best fruits and veggies of the year are right now!
I've always wanted to try these beans, but never did! Love how simple to prepare they are! And the addition of bacon is perfect!
You've got to try them, Mira! So good... 🙂
Hi Marissa! I've not seen these beans, certainly not here in TN. I will have to substitute with the beans from our garden. But next year I will be sure to acquire some seeds for planting!
You and that garden, Dorothy! I'm so jealous... 🙂
Yes...I know...BACON!! You know, I have seen these at the farmers market and never thought to buy them because I wasn't sure what to do with them. Now I do! I'll get them this weekend. 🙂
Let me know what you think, Nagi. I think you'll love them... 🙂
This is delish. I've also made them with bacon and toasted almonds.
Yes! This is the perfect dish for summer. I am growing scarlet runner beans, which are about the same size, so I think I am going to try this once my harvest comes in!
Yum! Are scarlet runner beans the beans that are purple when raw but turn green when you cook them?