How To Cook Green Beans Like A Pro

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Ever wonder how to cook green beans like a true professional? Restaurant green beans are expertly prepared (and deeeeelicious!), but now yo’ beans can rival those made by 5-star chefs!

After whipping up this recipe multiple times for different occasions and receiving countless compliments, I can assure you that this easy recipe will impress even the pickiest of eaters. (Hint: It’s all about the bacon!)

Green beans sautéed with bacon salt pepper and olive oil
Print Recipe

Chef-Quality Green Beans

Ever wonder how to cook green beans like a true professional? Restaurant green beans are expertly prepared (and deeeeelicious!), but now yo' beans can rival those made by 5-star chefs!
Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Total Time25 mins
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Servings: 4
Author: The Health Investment

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh green beans
  • 1 shallot bulb, peeled
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled
  • 1/2 pound bacon (or bacon ends)*
  • 1 teaspoon za'atar seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • Extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  • Rinse green beans; chop off ends. (If they're super long, cut in half.)
  • Mince shallots and garlic. Set aside.
  • Cook bacon in skillet on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly underdone. (You don't want to overcook the bacon in this step because you'll cook it a bit more later on...)
  • Transfer bacon pieces to plate covered with paper towel. (The paper towel will absorb some of the grease.) Save for later.
  • Discard 2/3 of bacon fat but reserve 1/3 of fat in skillet.
  • Add shallots and garlic to skillet (still on medium heat). Sauté in bacon fat, stirring occasionally, until slightly browned.
  • Add green beans.
  • Season with za'atar, salt, and pepper. Cook until slightly tender, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.**
  • Chop up bacon. Add bacon back to skillet. Sauté an additional 2-3 minutes.
  • Pour all on serving platter; drizzle (liberally!) with extra virgin olive oil.

Notes

*Ideally, buy bacon that's uncured, nitrate-free, and sugar-free!
**PRO TIP: Don't overcook the green beans! They're best when slightly crisp (not overcooked/mushy).

Now that you’ve learned how to cook green beans like a pro, I’d love to see your creation! When you make them, post a pic of your finished product and tag me (@thehealthinvestment) on Instagram 🙂

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Picture of green beans sautéed with bacon salt pepper and olive oil above title - How To Cook Green Beans Like A Pro