🥓🟢 Bacon Green Beans
A quick and flavorful side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. The smoky bacon adds richness, while the green beans stay tender and crisp.
🥄 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4–5 strips of bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, if needed)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy
- Remove bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving bacon fat in the pan
2. Sauté the aromatics
- Add onion (if using) and garlic to the bacon fat
- Cook 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant
3. Cook the green beans
- Add green beans to the pan
- Sauté 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp
- Stir occasionally to coat them in bacon fat
4. Combine & season
- Return cooked bacon to the pan
- Season with salt and pepper (go easy—the bacon is already salty)
- Toss well and cook another 1–2 minutes
5. Serve
- Serve hot as a side with meat, poultry, or a hearty grain
💡 Tips
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little red pepper flakes or lemon zest
- Can also roast green beans and bacon in the oven for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for a crispier version
🟡 Why it’s great
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
- Quick, easy, and versatile
- Combines protein, fiber, and a savory crunch
If you want, I can give you a one-pan version with garlic butter that makes it even richer and faster to cook.