STEAMED SAUTEED GREEN BEANS
WITH BACON, VINEGAR, AND THYME

2 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 small onion, cut into small dice
1 pound green beans, stem ends trimmed, snapped in half
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Freshly ground black pepper

Fry bacon over medium heat in an 8-to-9-inch pot. Remove bacon from pot and set aside.

Add onion and saute, stirring until caramelized and rich brown in color, about 5 minutes.

Add green beans, 1/3 cup water, garlic, dried thyme if using (reserve fresh for later), and salt. Increase heat to medium-high, cover, and cook until steam escapes around lid. Set timer for 5 minutes and continue to steam until beans are brightly colored and just tender.

Remove lid and continue to cook until water evaporates and beans start to saute, 1 to 2 minutes longer.

Stir in bacon, fresh thyme if using, balsamic vinegar, and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Makes 4 servings
Source: CookSmart: Perfect Recipes for Every Day by Pam Anderson