Garlicky Green Bean Almondine

Bring a pot of water to boil and season with a generous pinch of sea salt.

Get a large bowl of ice water ready.

In a deep 10-inch skillet, melt the bacon fat. Throw in the slivered almonds, stir occasionally until toasted and golden. Remove to a small bowl and set them off to the side.

Drop the green beans into the salted boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes. Immediately remove and plunge them into the bowl of ice water, to lock in that bright green color.

Drain and shake off any excess water before placing the green beans in the skillet with the bacon fat. Toss and cook the beans for a few minutes to get them hot again.

Using a garlic press, press in the garlic. Add the lemon juice, if desired.

Season with a generous amount of black pepper and toss, cooking until the green beans are al dente or to your liking (about 8-10 minutes).

Add the toasted almonds back in to the skillet, toss and serve!