Italian Country Green Beans

When crisp, local farm-fresh green beans meet the rich, savory goodness of guanciale, magic happens in the skillet. Tossed gently with fragrant garlic and a drizzle of good olive oil, these simple ingredients are transformed into a rustic Italian-inspired side dish that’s anything but ordinary. The guanciale , cured pork jowl, lends a silky, salty depth that perfectly complements the bright, slightly sweet snap of the beans, while the garlic infuses everything with an irresistible aroma.

Once you try it, don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to way to serve green beans.

You will need:

1/2 lb fresh green beans, washed and snapped

Olive oil

4 garlic cloves

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

1/2 cup diced guanciale or pancetta ( or bacon)

1 cup chicken broth

Salt and pepper to taste

Add olive oil and garlic cloves to a large pot, bring the heat up to medium.  Lightly brown the whole cloves then remove  from pan. Add guanciale and red pepper flakes and give it a good stir.  Once guanciale is rendered, add green beans. Stir until beans are coated in olive oil and get a slight char to them.  Add broth,salt and pepper.  Cover and let simmer for 45 minutes