Cranberry Bacon Green Beans

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they are bright green and crisp-tender.

2. Drain the green beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, tossing to coat them in the garlic-infused oil.

6. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the green beans and continue to sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes.

7. Season the green beans with salt and black pepper to taste.

8. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the green beans to a serving dish.

9. Sprinkle crumbled bacon and dried cranberries over the top.

10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

11. Serve these Cranberry Bacon Green Beans as a vibrant and flavorful side dish.

Enjoy the combination of savory bacon, sweet cranberries, and crisp green beans.