Sweet and Spicy Green Beans

Hey there! I’m so excited to share this Sweet and Spicy Green Beans recipe with you. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you need a quick side dish that packs a flavorful punch. Trust me; you’ll fall in love with how simple and delicious these green beans are!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes1.
• Flavorful: A perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory4.
• Versatile: Pairs well with almost any main course1.
• Healthy: A great way to get your veggies in1.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 5 minutes1
• Cook Time: 15 minutes1
• Serving Size: 4 servings2

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed2
• 3 slices thick-cut bacon1
• 3 cloves garlic, very finely minced1
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce1
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar or monk fruit sweetener (for a keto-friendly option)1
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar1
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds1
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)1
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil2
• 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt2
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper2
• ½ tablespoon hot pepper sauce2
• 1 tablespoon honey2

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Cook the Bacon: If using bacon, warm a skillet to medium heat. Cut the bacon into small pieces and cook until crisp. Remove from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan1.
2. Sauté the Green Beans: If using avocado oil, heat the oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the green beans, salt, and pepper. Cook the green beans, stirring often, until they just begin to soften, for about 5 minutes2.
3. Add Flavor: If using fresh garlic, pour off all of the bacon grease except 1 tablespoon. Add the green beans to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, 6-7 minutes until they have begun to char and reached your desired tenderness1. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the hot sauce, garlic, and honey2.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the garlic, soy sauce, sweetener (brown sugar or monk fruit), and apple cider vinegar1.
5. Combine Everything: Pour the sauce into the skillet with the green beans and toss to coat1. If using bacon, add it back in1. Stir in the hot sauce, garlic, and honey. Cook, stirring, until the beans are tender-crisp and coated in the sauce, 1-2 more minutes2.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and red pepper flakes (if using) over the green beans. Serve immediately and enjoy1!

Serving Suggestions

These green beans are fantastic with:

• Grilled chicken or steak
• Tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option
• As a side to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes

Tips for Customization

• Make it Keto: Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol instead of brown sugar1.
• Add More Veggies: Include other veggies like sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms3.
• Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to your liking4.
• Try Different Oils: Experiment with sesame oil or peanut oil for a unique flavor3.
• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 100-150
• Net Carbs: 5-7 grams (depending on sweetener)1
• Protein: 5-7 grams
• Fat: 6-8 grams

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.