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Green Beans with Bacon: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Your Next Meal

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Enjoy a delicious side dish of fresh green beans sautéed with crispy bacon and garlic, finished with a hint of balsamic vinegar. This quick and easy recipe adds a burst of flavor and texture to any meal, making it a perfect complement to your favorite main courses.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 4 slices of thick-cut bacon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
  2. Trim the ends of the green beans by snapping them off or using a sharp knife.
  3. Place the trimmed green beans in a large bowl and set aside.
  4. In a large skillet, add the four slices of thick-cut bacon. A cast-iron skillet is recommended for even cooking.
  5. Turn the heat to medium and cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  6. Once crispy, remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
  7. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet with the bacon drippings.
  8. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  9. Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and stir to coat them in the garlic and oil mixture.
  10. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, stirring to distribute the seasoning evenly.
  11. Sauté the green beans for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crunchy. Cook longer if you prefer them softer.
  12. Crumble the crispy bacon into the skillet with the green beans.
  13. If desired, drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar over the mixture and stir to combine.
  14. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top for added crunch and nutty flavor.
  15. Transfer the green beans with bacon to a serving dish, garnishing with extra sliced almonds and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
  16. Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite main course.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
  • Substitute bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor without meat.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for variety.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet.

Find it online: https://anasrecipes.com/green-beans-with-bacon-2/