Spring greens with bacon and hazelnuts

Spring Greens with Bacon and Hazelnuts is a delightful dish that embodies the freshness of spring with the savory complement of bacon and the nutty crunch of hazelnuts. This recipe, originating from the culinary minds at Saturday Kitchen, offers a splendid balance of textures and flavors, making it an excellent choice for a side dish or a light main course.

Cultural or Historical Context

Spring greens, a term often used in British cuisine, refer to the first tender leaves of cabbage or similar leafy greens available in early spring. The addition of bacon and hazelnuts to spring greens transforms this simple vegetable into a rich and flavorful dish. The combination of ingredients reflects a traditional appreciation for seasonal eating, utilizing what is freshly available.

Ingredients List for Spring Greens with Bacon and Hazelnuts

• 2 heads of spring greens, leaves separated, tough stalks removed, and roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons of rapeseed oil
• 4 rashers of smoked streaky bacon, chopped into 1cm/½in pieces
• 50g of toasted hazelnut pieces
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by boiling a large pan of water with a pinch of salt. Add the spring greens and cook for 2 minutes. Then drain and rinse under cold water before draining thoroughly.
2. In a large frying pan, heat the rapeseed oil over a high heat, add the bacon pieces, and fry until crisp and golden-brown.
3. Add the blanched spring greens to the bacon, stir-frying for a couple of minutes until wilted and coated in the bacon fat.
4. Season with salt and pepper, mix in the toasted hazelnuts, and serve immediately.

Storage and Reheating

To store, place the cooled dish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until thoroughly warmed, adding a little extra oil if necessary to prevent sticking.

Nutritional Information

This dish provides a good balance of vitamins and minerals from the spring greens, alongside the protein from the bacon. Hazelnuts add a healthy dose of fats, fiber, and additional vitamins. However, exact nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Spring Greens with Bacon and Hazelnuts

• Can I substitute the bacon with a vegetarian option? Yes, for a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tofu or a similar substitute to mimic the flavor of bacon.
• Are there any alternatives to rapeseed oil? Olive oil or any other vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
• Can I use other types of nuts? Absolutely, while hazelnuts offer a unique flavor and crunch, walnuts or almonds can also complement the dish nicely.

The original recipe for this delightful dish comes from The Hairy Bikers and Lorraine Pascale: Cooking the Nation's Favourite Food, ensuring it's not only delicious but also has a pedigree of culinary expertise behind it​​.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of spring with this easy and nutritious recipe that's perfect for welcoming the warmer months.