These green beans with bacon are a tasty side dish! The crispy bacon adds a yummy flavor that makes the beans even better. It’s the perfect combo of crunchy and fresh!
I love how easy this dish is! Just cook the bacon, toss in the green beans, and let it all mingle. You might find yourself eating more veggies just to enjoy the bacon! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this dish. If you can’t find fresh ones, you can use frozen green beans. Just adjust the cooking time as they are usually pre-blanched.
Bacon: Bacon adds a lovely smoky flavor. Feel free to substitute turkey bacon or pancetta if you prefer a lighter option. I’ve tried both, and they still deliver great taste!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that strong flavor, but garlic powder can act as a substitute in a pinch. Just a small amount, about 1/4 teaspoon, should do!
Onion: The onion is optional, but it adds depth. You could swap it for shallots if you want a milder flavor, or leave it out for a simpler dish.
Red Pepper Flakes: They provide a bit of heat. If you’re not into spicy, you can skip them, or add a dash of black pepper instead for mild warmth.
How Do I Get the Green Beans Just Right?
Getting your green beans perfectly cooked is key to this dish! Start by boiling them in salted water. This step not only cooks the beans but also keeps them vibrant in color. Once they’re bright green and slightly tender, quickly transfer them to an ice bath. This stops the cooking process.
- Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to keep them bright green, then drain.
Taking the time to do this will make a big difference in texture and appearance!
How to Make Green Beans With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or bacon drippings (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15 minutes for cooking. Altogether, you’ll need around 30 minutes to whip up this delicious and savory side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the trimmed green beans. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they turn bright green and are tender but still slightly crisp. Next, drain the beans and quickly transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking process and keep their vibrant color. After a few minutes, drain the beans again and set them aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the skillet—if there’s too much, feel free to remove some, keeping about 1-2 tablespoons.
3. Sauté Garlic and Onion:
Add the minced garlic (and chopped onion if you’re using it) into the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until it’s fragrant and soft. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Combine and Sauté Green Beans:
Now, add the drained green beans to the skillet. Toss them well to coat in the bacon fat, garlic, and onion mixture. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes, until the beans are heated through and have a little caramelization on them.
5. Season and Add Bacon:
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet with the green beans. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the green beans with bacon to a serving dish. Serve them warm as a delicious side dish with your meal. Enjoy the savory flavors!
Now, dig in and savor your perfectly cooked Green Beans with Bacon!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them first and adjust the cooking time to about 4-5 minutes in boiling water, as they are usually pre-blanched.
How Should I 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 on low heat until heated through or use the microwave in short intervals.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or sautéed mushrooms for a rich flavor. Use olive oil for cooking instead of bacon fat to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What Can I Serve With Green Beans With Bacon?
This dish pairs well with a variety of main courses! Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It also complements hearty grain dishes like quinoa or couscous for a balanced meal.
