Recipe: Green Beans and Crispy Bacon with Lemon Zest

GREEN BEANS AND CRISPY BACON WITH LEMON ZEST

4 thick pepper bacon slices, cut diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces
1 pound young green beans, trimmed
1 to 2 tablespoons water
Zest and juice of 1 large lemon*
Lemon pepper (optional)
Coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste, optional)

In medium heavy skillet, cook bacon pieces over low to medium-low heat, turning as needed to achieve uniform crispness. Using slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towel to drain. Pour off bacon drippings, reserving 1 tablespoon in the skillet.

In same skillet, increase heat to medium-high, add green beans and toss them in drippings until coated. Saute, stirring frequently, adding 1 tablespoon of water at a time to keep beans moist and to prevent them from browning. Cook until just tender-crisp, about 4 to 5 minutes.

Sprinkle beans with the bacon, lemon zest and some juice from lemon. Toss and saute 30 seconds. Season with lemon pepper, salt and black pepper, if desired. Serve.

*Use a 4- to 5-hole zester instead of a grater to create 1/2- to 1-inch ribbons.

Makes 10 servings
Source: Everything Tastes Better With Bacon by Sara Perry