Green Beans with Bacon and Dates

Makes 4 servings
Serving size: ⅓ cup
Cook time: 20 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes

Per serving: calories 106; fat 5.5 g; saturated fat 0 g; fiber 3 g; protein 3 g; carbohydrates 12 g; sugar 7 g

I’ve never been much of a green bean fan, but I could eat these every day! Savory and sweet, soft and crunchy . . . perfect! They’re a crowd-pleaser served with your holiday ham or roasted turkey.

The alcohol won’t cook off here, but vegetable or chicken broth makes a fine substitute if you’re serving this to kids.

---

2 slices bacon, halved crosswise

1 pound green beans, trimmed

5 dates, pitted and roughly chopped

¾ cup white or rosé wine (or vegetable or chicken broth)

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)

1. Line a plate with paper towels. Set the Instant Pot to “sauté, medium heat,” add the bacon, and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until crispy. Transfer to the prepared plate to drain, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.

2. Add the green beans to the pot and sauté for 3 minutes (this will help keep them firm).

3. Add the dates, wine, and salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on high pressure for 2 minutes. Quick-release the pressure. Drain the green beans and dates.

4. Transfer the green beans and dates to a serving dish and crumble the crispy bacon over the top. Sprinkle with parsley (if using) and serve.