This dish combines tender green beans with crispy bacon for a tasty side that everyone loves. It’s simple yet full of flavor, perfect for any dinner!
Honestly, who can resist bacon? I like to serve this alongside roasted chicken or even on its own for a quick snack. You’ll be going back for seconds, trust me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are key for a crisp texture. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen green beans. They work too! Just use them without thawing, and adjust the cooking time slightly.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. Turkey bacon or pancetta can also be great substitutes for a lighter option.
Onion: A small onion adds a sweet flavor as it cooks. Shallots can be a good alternative for a milder taste. If you’re in a hurry, you could skip it but it adds a nice depth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really boosts the flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder, but go light—start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for Green Beans?
To ensure your green beans are perfectly cooked and retain their bright color, blanching is essential. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by boiling salted water in a large pot.
- Add the green beans and cook for just 3-4 minutes until they are bright green.
- Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. This keeps them tender yet crunchy.
When adding the beans to the skillet, make sure to toss them well in the bacon fat and other ingredients to coat them evenly.
Green Beans With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and tasty side that pairs well with many main courses!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fresh green beans and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want them bright green and tender-crisp! After that, drain and rinse them immediately under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will keep them nice and crunchy. Set them aside for later!
2. Cook the Bacon:
Now, grab a large skillet and cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once it’s done, carefully transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool. Don’t forget to reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of the delicious bacon fat left in the skillet for the rest of the dish!
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it turns golden and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Combine the Green Beans:
Time to add the blanched green beans to the skillet! Toss them around so they get coated in that yummy bacon fat, along with the onions and garlic. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through and tender.
5. Finish and Serve:
Finally, stir in the crumbled bacon and season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from the heat, transfer the green beans and bacon to a serving dish, and enjoy while warm!
This savory side dish perfectly highlights the crispness of green beans combined with the smoky, crispy flavor of bacon. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead?
Absolutely! Frozen green beans can be used in this recipe. Just skip the blanching step; add them directly to the skillet. You may need to cook them a bit longer to ensure they’re heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey bacon or even pancetta for a similar flavor. For a vegetarian version, use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to get that smoky taste without meat!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if they seem dry.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the green beans and cook the bacon ahead of time. Just combine them just before serving! This way, you’ll only need to sauté the onions and garlic and toss everything together for a quick meal.