Green Beans and Bacon

Directions

1. 1
   Toss the green beans into a large pot of boiling salted water and cook until bright green in color and crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
2. 2
   Drain the beans and shock in a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking.
3. 3
   Drain the beans again and pat dry.
4. 4
   Cook the bacon in a large, heavy saute pan until crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. 5
   Remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
6. 6
   Spoon off the excess bacon grease, leaving 2 tablespoons in the pan.
7. 7
   Add the onion to the pan and saute until soft and very tender, 4 to 5 minutes.
8. 8
   Sprinkle in the garlic and red pepper flakes and saute until just fragrant, about 1 more minute.
9. 9
   Add the reserved green beans and the pecans and cook until heated through, 5 to 6 minutes more.
10. 10
    Return the bacon to the pan, pour in the lemon juice and toss.
11. 11
    Season with salt and pepper.
12. 12
    Photograph by David Malosh