This go-to side requires little time and offers a great way to elevate any dinner.
Rather than letting elaborate entrées fall to the wayside because of time consuming sides, enhance your main attraction by pairing it with a simple, savory and versatile side that takes minimal prep and cook time. Turning a simple veggie like green beans from boring to unforgettable is as easy as adding beer and bacon! The “Hopped-Up” Green Beans turn spectacular when steamed in a mildly hoppy beer like Seattle’s Maritime Pacific Brewing Company Islander Pale Ale and tossed in caramelized thick-cut bacon, shallots and garlic. This light blond ale adds the perfect touch of malt and hop aroma to amplify the flavors in this sumptuous, addictive side.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: about 12 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
4 cups green beans, washed and cut in half (don’t forget to trim the ends)
4 strips thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 large shallot, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Maritime Pacific Brewing Company Islander Pale Ale
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat up olive oil and add bacon. Once the bacon fat begins to render, add shallots to the skillet. Sauté bacon and shallots together until shallots just begin to sweat, about 2 minutes. Add garlic and continue sautéing until garlic, shallots and bacon become caramelized, about 3 minutes.
Add beer and green beans to skillet, turning the heat up to high. Once beer begins to boil, cover skillet and reduce heat to medium. Keep beans covered for about 7 minutes, or until beans are tender, but not wilted. Toss with salt and pepper and serve.
The fun thing about this dish is that you can experiment with different beers. If serving alongside a roast or steak, try using a maltier, darker brew to accentuate the flavors in the beef. Or, if pairing with salmon or grilled chicken, experiment with a lighter, more citrusy beer. The possibilities are endless, and always delicious!
