When cooking for a crowd on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, I find that there are not enough burners on the stove or places in the oven for yet another dish. I love vegetables, though, and like to include several on the menu. The solution, of course, is to use the slow cooker. Not only does it sit on the counter away from the stove, but the food in it cooks unattended, so you can focus on the other luscious dishes. Slow Cooker Italian Green Beans may be very easy, but this dish is delicious and special enough for company.

Since slow cookers are inexpensive, you may want to invest in several so that you can serve extra side dishes. They are perfect to keep things warm when serving the food buffet-style, and the new slow cookers are attractive and come in dozens of different shapes and sizes. There is even a popular one that has three crocks in one, which is perfect for family gatherings or dinners with numerous guests. Slow Cooker Italian Green Beans may become an easy favorite vegetable for serving anytime, since the ingredients are always available.

8 Servings

2 pounds frozen petite green beans
1 pound sliced mushrooms
1/2 pound bacon, cooked crisp, drained, and crumbled
1 envelope Italian salad dressing mix
1 teaspoon granular chicken bouillon, dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
1/4 cup butter

1. Mix all ingredients in the crock of a 3-5 quart slow cooker.
2. Cover, turn to the low setting, and let cook 2-3 hours until the beans are tender.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 153 Calories from Fat 99
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 65% Protein 15% Carb. 21%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 11 g
Saturated Fat 5 g
Cholesterol 24 mg
Sodium 537 mg
Total Carbohydrate 8 g
Dietary Fiber 1 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein 6 g

Vitamin A 12% Vitamin C 18% Calcium 0% Iron 11%