This dish combines fresh green beans with tasty bacon for a simple side that everyone loves. It’s cooked until the beans are tender, and the bacon is crispy!
I can’t resist the crispy bacon bits. They make the beans so much more fun to eat! I like to serve this alongside grilled chicken for a perfect meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans have the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure they’re thawed and drained before cooking.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for its rich flavor and crispy texture. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon can work well too. Just cook them until crispy!
Onion: A small onion adds great depth to the dish. If you’re not a fan of onion, you can skip it, or use shallots for a milder taste.
Garlic: Minced garlic gives a nice aroma. If you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic in a jar is a quick alternative. Just adjust the quantity to your taste.
How Do You Get the Green Beans Perfectly Bright and Tender?
Cooking green beans can be tricky. You want them crisp but tender. The best method is blanching: boil them rapidly then shock them in ice water. Here’s how to achieve that perfect bite:
- Boil a pot of salted water. The salt helps keep the color bright.
- Add the green beans for 3-4 minutes, until they turn vibrant green.
- Immediately move them to an ice bath to stop cooking.
- This technique helps retain their snap and prevents them from becoming mushy.
This step can really elevate your dish, making the beans a standout component. Enjoy your cooking!
Green Beans With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy side dish, perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the trimmed green beans and cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be bright green and just tender. After cooking, drain the beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This helps keep their vibrant color and stops the cooking process. Drain them again and set aside.
2. Cooking the Bacon:
Next, take a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy and golden, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon bits to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, throw in the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and give it another 30 seconds to cook until you can smell the garlic’s delightful aroma.
4. Adding the Green Beans:
Now it’s time to add the drained green beans to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Toss them well, making sure they’re coated in that flavorful bacon fat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through. If your skillet looks a little dry, drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil to keep everything nice and moist.
5. Combine and Season:
Return the crispy bacon bits to the skillet. Toss everything together once more to combine all the flavors. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Give it a final stir and you’re ready to serve!
6. Serve:
Transfer the flavorful green beans with bacon to a serving dish and enjoy them warm as a delicious side dish. They pair perfectly with your favorite mains!
This recipe showcases the fresh crunch of green beans enhanced by the rich, savory flavor of crispy bacon, garlic, and onion. It’s a sure hit at any meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure they’re thawed and drained before sautéing them. This way, you’ll get a nice texture without excess water in the dish.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
If you’re looking to cut back on calories, try using turkey bacon or reduce the amount of bacon you use. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrients!
What Should I Serve with Green Beans and Bacon?
These green beans pair wonderfully with grilled meats, like chicken or steak. You can also serve them alongside hearty dishes like casseroles or pasta for a complete meal.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can add a splash of olive oil if they look dry.