Green Bean Bacon Bundles (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main

01 - 450 g fresh green beans, trimmed
02 - 10-12 slices bacon, cut in half

→ Glaze & Seasoning

03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
04 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
05 - Salt, to taste
06 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
07 - Garlic powder, optional
08 - Red pepper flakes, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add green beans and blanch for 2 to 3 minutes until vibrant green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer to an ice water bath to halt cooking, then drain and pat dry.
02 - Gather 5 to 6 green beans and form small bundles. Wrap each bundle tightly with half a slice of bacon, tucking the end underneath or securing with a toothpick if necessary. Arrange bundles seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
03 - In a small bowl, combine melted butter and brown sugar, stirring to dissolve. Brush glaze thoroughly over each bundle. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and, if desired, garlic powder or red pepper flakes for added flavour.
04 - Preheat oven to 200°C. Bake bundles for 20 to 25 minutes until bacon is crisp and beans are tender. For additional crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end, monitoring closely to prevent burning.

# Notes:

01 - Blanching the beans preserves their colour and keeps them tender-crisp for best texture.
02 - Thin-cut bacon delivers the crispiest bundles; for increased sweetness, drizzle with honey or maple syrup just before baking.
03 - Bundles can be prepped ahead and baked fresh before serving, ideal for entertaining or holiday meal planning.