Favorite Green Beans

Directions

1. 1
   Prep green beans by removing stems and cutting into bite sized pieces. Add to boiling water with a generous pinch of salt. Blanch the beans for 3 to 5 minutes until tender crisp.
2. 2
   Drain beans and place immediately into an ice water bath. Allow to cool completely and drain again.
3. 3
   Cook bacon until crispy. If you so choose, reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings. Chop bacon into small pieces.
4. 4
   Prep remaining ingredients by slicing Crimini mushrooms and finely chopping shallot.
5. 5
   In a large saute pan add 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or bacon drippings) and 2 teaspoons of butter. Melt over high heat and add the mushrooms. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook until mushrooms are golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add shallots and cook until fragrant and translucent.
6. 6
   Add green beans and bacon and toss well. Cook until heated. Check for flavor and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. 7
   Note: The beans can be blanched and the bacon can be cooked a day ahead. The mushrooms can also be sliced. This prep can save a lot of time on Thanksgiving day.