Add the green beans and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until bright green and crisp-tender.
Drain the green beans in a colander and set aside.
Place the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp.
Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the skillet.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
Add the green beans, maple syrup, water, salt, and black pepper, stirring to coat evenly.
Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through and lightly glazed.
Return the bacon to the skillet and toss to distribute evenly.
Serve hot.
Notes
Estimated WW Points: 5 (Check official WW app for exact points)
Tips and Tricks
Keep the Beans Crisp - Avoid overcooking during the initial boiling. They will continue cooking in the skillet.Watch the Garlic - Garlic burns quickly in hot bacon drippings. Keep it moving and reduce the heat if necessary.Use Real Maple Syrup - Pure maple syrup gives the best flavor. Pancake syrup is usually sweeter and won't taste quite the same.Adjust the Bacon Drippings - Leave about one tablespoon in the skillet. Too much can make the finished beans greasy.Prepare Ahead - Trim the green beans and chop the bacon a day ahead to save preparation time.Serve Soon After Cooking - The beans have the best texture when served fresh. They can soften if they sit in the warm skillet too long.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigerator - Store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Freezer - Freezing is possible for up to 2 months, but the beans will lose some of their crisp texture after thawing.Skillet - Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.Microwave - Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between intervals until hot.