Looking for a quick and delicious side dish that will elevate your dinner game? Look no further than these Quick Green Beans with Bacon! This savory recipe combines the crisp freshness of green beans with the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon, all ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering, this dish is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover why this side dish is a must-try!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly under cold running water, then trim off the tough stem ends using a sharp knife.
- Pat the green beans dry with clean paper towels to ensure they will crisp properly when cooking.
- In a large skillet, cut the bacon into small 1/2-inch pieces using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife.
- Place the chopped bacon in the cold skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the bacon becomes crisp and golden brown, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy bacon pieces from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet with remaining bacon drippings, add olive oil and increase heat to medium-high.
- Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté the green beans, stirring occasionally, until they become bright green and slightly tender but still crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
- Season the green beans with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, tossing to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces over the green beans just before serving, providing a delicious crunch and smoky flavor.
- Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Green Beans: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh green beans that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch. Avoid any that are wilted or have brown spots.
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: After washing the green beans, make sure to pat them dry thoroughly. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crisp when sautéing.
- Cook Bacon Slowly: Start with a cold skillet when cooking the bacon. This allows the fat to render slowly, leading to perfectly crispy bacon without burning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When adding the green beans to the skillet, spread them out in a single layer. This ensures even cooking and helps them retain their crunch.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning! Add a pinch of garlic powder or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the green beans right after cooking. They are at their peak when hot and fresh from the skillet.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
