Prepare to transform ordinary green beans into a mouthwatering sensation that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This irresistible recipe combines crispy bacon, perfectly toasted almonds, and tender-crisp green beans into a side dish that's not just a vegetable—it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen. Whether you're looking to impress at a family dinner or elevate your weeknight meal, these green beans are about to become your new culinary secret weapon.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the green beans by washing them thoroughly under cold running water. Trim off the tough ends of the beans using a sharp knife, cutting about 1/4 inch from each end to remove any woody or stringy parts.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and golden brown, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crisp, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the sliced almonds. Toast the almonds over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Cook until they become golden brown and fragrant, which typically takes 2-3 minutes. Remove almonds and set aside.
- Wipe the skillet clean, then add olive oil. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, spreading them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Sauté the green beans for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender-crisp. They should be bright green and have a slight crunch when bitten.
- Season the green beans with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, tossing to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the green beans to a serving platter. Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces over the beans.
- Top the green beans with the toasted almonds, ensuring an even distribution for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Serve immediately while the beans are hot and the bacon and almonds are crisp. This dish pairs wonderfully as a side with roasted meats or grilled chicken.
Tips
- Always choose fresh, firm green beans with vibrant color and no blemishes.
- Pat green beans completely dry before sautéing to ensure they brown nicely instead of steaming.
- Use a wide skillet to allow beans to cook in a single layer for even browning.
- Don't walk away while toasting almonds—they can burn quickly! Constant stirring is key.
- For extra flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute turkey bacon or use less bacon and add more almonds.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the bacon and the crunch of the almonds.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 210kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
