This dish combines fresh, crunchy green beans with crispy, salty bacon. The flavors mix perfectly, making a side that everyone will enjoy!
I mean, who can resist bacon? It adds such a tasty crunch, and I love how quickly it comes together. It’s perfect for busy nights when I want something simple but yummy! 🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the star of this dish. You can also use frozen green beans if fresh ones aren’t available. Just adjust the cooking time, as frozen beans might not need blanching.
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey bacon works as a lighter option. For a vegetarian approach, try smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a similar crunch.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and taste. If you’re not a fan, you can leave it out or use garlic powder, but fresh garlic truly elevates the dish.
Olive Oil: This is optional, depending on how much bacon fat you have. You can use butter for a richer flavor or vegetable oil for a neutral option if you prefer.
How Do I Get My Green Beans to Stay Bright Green?
Blanching is the key step here! It helps keep the green beans vibrant and crisp. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Once they’re bright green and still crunchy, quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking and holds that beautiful color.
- After they cool, drain the beans well before adding them to the skillet with garlic and bacon.
Remember, timing is important for the blanching process! Don’t skip the ice bath—it’s a game changer for the beans.
Green Beans With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, based on bacon fat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 8-10 minutes cooking the bacon and green beans, plus a few minutes for blanching. It’s a quick and easy side dish that pairs perfectly with many meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the trimmed green beans to the pot. Allow them to cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender but still crisp. This helps retain that lovely color and crunch!
2. Ice Bath Time:
After blanching, drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and keep them vibrant. Once cooled, drain them again and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered out, which should take about 6-8 minutes. The smell will be amazing!
4. Remove Bacon and Keep the Fat:
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy bacon pieces to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up excess grease. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet; this is where the flavor comes from!
5. Sauté Garlic:
If there’s not enough bacon fat in the skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Now, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
6. Add Green Beans:
Next, toss the blanched green beans into the skillet. Stir them around in the bacon fat and garlic for about 3-5 minutes until they are heated through and slightly caramelized. This adds a lovely flavor!
7. Mix in Bacon and Season:
Stir in the crispy bacon pieces, and season everything with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for a little kick, if desired. Give it a good toss to combine everything!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer your delicious green beans with bacon to a serving dish. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful side that complements any meal!
Dig in and savor the delightful combo of crunchy green beans and crispy bacon! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just cook them according to the package instructions, usually blanching them for a shorter time (about 2-3 minutes) until they’re heated through. There’s no need for an ice bath since they’re already blanched when frozen.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
If you’re running low on bacon, turkey bacon or pancetta can be good substitutes. For a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tempeh, which gives a similar flavor and texture without the meat.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If they seem dry, add a splash of water or olive oil to revive them!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the green beans and cook the bacon a day ahead. Keep them separate in the fridge and combine them just before serving to maintain the crispness of the beans and bacon.
